Extra long strand of antique wound Dutch annular beads, later called "Dogon Donuts" because they were especially favored by the Dogon people of Mali
Glass beads for global trade were produced in the Netherlands (aka Holland, the Low Countries, the Dutch) between 1600-1800.
Two main styles gained popularity in Africa: 1. "Dutch Dogon" beads - large rounded beads about 18mm diameter with large holes and 2. "Dogon Donuts" annular (aka ring-shaped) beads with extra large holes 10-12mm diameter. Dark blue was the most popular color in both styles, although other colors were made.
This strand appears to be a possible transition between the two styles. The diameter is smaller and the holes are getting bigger, though most of the beads are considerably wider than the later "donuts"
The color is also a rare and beautiful and teal green . Most of the beads are smooth, but several also have grooves or notches made while the glass was still molten.
Collected in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire in the mid-1970s by Joyce Diamanti, bead researcher, writer, editor and educator.
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