Orange Beaded Tibetan Adjustable Necklace with Chank Pendant
Description
Perched on a plateau in the Himalayas 16,000 feet above sea level, Tibet at first glance appears to be a remote country overshadowed by its much larger neighbors--India to the West and China to the East. In fact, Tibet has long been a cultural hub and is known worldwide for its astonishing jewelry. Historically, red coral from the Mediterranean, and pearls and conch shells from the Indian Ocean were imported to supplement green turquoise, agates and precious metals. Using these materials, Tibetan silversmiths and metalworkers produced intricately worked jewelry for decorative and religious purposes. These artists would be commissioned by rich patrons, who would offer them lodging and food while the desired piece was being finished.
Today many of the painstaking methods of creating jewelry by hand have given way to semi-automated processes, and plastics and resins are used side-by-side with traditional materials. Tibetans have none of our snobbery when it comes to materials—extremely expensive pieces with sterling silver are often accompanied by resins and plastics! Having taken all of these changes in its stride, Tibet continues to provide the world with gifted jewelers and breathtaking jewelry.
DL0219
Approximate Age: Contemporary
People: Tibetan
Country of Origin: Tibet, Nepal
Length Details
Size Details
Object Size: beads are 10-17 mm diameter. See picture with penny for size comparison.
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Some of our beads have traveled at least three continents, and have graced numerous owners.