Tibetan Necklace

A single strand of graduated coral beads with turquoise inlay, closing with a turquoise and coral toggle. The beads are barrel-shaped and irregular in contour, increasing in size toward the lower arc, where the largest bead sits at the centre. Turquoise is inlaid into the natural cavities of the coral, distributed without regular spacing across the strand. The closure is formed by a turquoise nugget and a small coral bead on a cord loop. The coral carries a worn, even surface, with natural variation in tone.

In Tibetan jewellery, coral and turquoise are worn as strung material rather than set in metal. The graduated order of the beads gives the strand its weight and line.

From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Thailand during a cultural jewellery fair, 1981.

Title

Tibetan Necklace

Origin

Tibet

Date

19th–20th century

Dimensions

L 66 cm (26.0 in)

Medium

Coral, with turquoise inlay

Provenance

From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Thailand during a cultural jewellery fair, 1981.

Condition

Surface worn. Inlays intact. Patina consistent and undisturbed.