Large old Tibetan or Nepal Repoussed silver capped agate melon bead. 82.5x22.75x21mm. Pkg 1. B4-car421

Old Tibetan or Nepali stamped repousse silver capped agate melon bead. Natural old weathered agate beads set more recently in repousse silver caps by artisans in Nepal. This is an older bead, purchased in Nepal in the 1970s, they have far more character than the new beads being made today. Measures 82.5x22.75x21mm. 57 grams. Holes in the stone are hand drilled. They are too far recessed to measure but look to be around 2mm. Sold individually.

The Tibetans sometimes applied gold or silver caps to the ends of valuable ancient stone beads such as etched carnelians, dZi and banded agates to conceal damage or reinforce fragile beads. This style has been copied in some vintage and contemporary silver-capped beads from Nepal.