Antique Nigerian coral beads, largest 25x8mm on 30-inch Strand
Collector note: there is also one classic curved imitation coral bead on this strand, probably Czech production of the 1800s. Intrepid representatives of Czech bead makers scoured the world looking for valuable beads that could be imitated in glass. The replica in this strand is a slightly darker orange, located at about the 11 o'clock in my photo.
Only one strand exactly like this available, altho I have others that are similar
Coral crowns and other royal coral regalia reiterated the rights of the Oba (Divine King) to rule Benin in southern Nigeria from 1440-1897
Coral remains important in Nigerian society today, especially for weddings
Coral, an organic gem, is the outer skeletons of once-living sea polyps
Valued worldwide by humans for over 10,000 years, coral was treasured by ancient Egyptians, other Africans, Indians, Greeks, and Romans as well as Celtic tribes of northern Europe, Indians, Tibetans and Native Americans.
Mediterranean red-orange coral is most famous.
Protect Coral from abrasion, heat, perspiration and cosmetics which can fade the color. Clean with soap and water only, no steam cleaning.
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