Cobalt blue, antique, larger glass seed beads from Nagaland, 1.5-2x2-3mm
These beads are a darker blue and more opaque than they appear in this photo
4 strands of 12” (or unstrung equivalent) in bags of 39 grams
Cobalt beads were often used as “royal” accents in high status adornment and as the major color in full “royal” multi-strand necklaces.
Very dark, yet translucent, these were collected in the 1970’s and 1980’s from the Konyak Nagas of NE India, who wore beads in abundance as a signature of their identity and for status within their specific groups, until usage waned due to changing ideas on religion and indicators of status.
Some beads, of certain colors, were worn daily, others on special occasions or only by persons deemed worthy by dint of birth, association with the chief, warrior feats or wealth and shows of such, like feast giving.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection.