A double-strand necklace featuring an antique Indian silver top, ancient quartz, Mizoram carnelian, ancient agate, and white and indigo blue beads.

This is a double-strand necklace connecting an antique Indian silver top, ancient quartz, Mizoram carnelian, ancient agate, and white & indigo blue beads. The top is made of antique Indian silver, crafted between the 19th and early 20th centuries. We believe that wearing it frequently will bring out a unique luster. The central motif depicts Shiva (or Bell God). (Top dimensions: 1.9cm length, 1.4cm width, including the bail.) The small bells next to the top are from the Kuki people, used as ornaments. These are antique items (they do not ring). The plump silver beads beside the top are extremely rare old Chin silver, passed down from around the 18th-19th centuries, originating from Burma. These were used by Chin women for necklaces and show unique wear and endearing marks. Their weight and presence are incomparable to modern silver (though some modern pieces are also stylish). These antique beads have seen a significant price increase in recent years. The transparent beads are ancient quartz unearthed in Afghanistan, dating back approximately 1500 years to the Roman era. They have a beautiful cut shape. Minor scratches are present, but they add to their charm when considering their age. (Ancient quartz dimensions: 0.8cm length, 0.7cm width.) The orange beads are Mizoram carnelian, passed down from around the 18th century, originating from Mizoram state in Eastern India. Enjoy their lustrous, beautiful orange hue and gradations. A single small ancient agate bead has been incorporated. This was unearthed in the Indus River basin, spanning areas like Pakistan and India, dating back approximately 2000 years. Its milky white color, along with slight irregularities and scratches, contributes to its unique character. The indigo blue beads are antique beads known as Indo-Pacific beads. The origins of Indo-Pacific beads are said to date back to the 2nd century BC. These particular beads were unearthed in Indonesia and are from around the 10th century – over 1000 years old! Their varying sizes and shades make them endlessly fascinating. The small charms beside the golden beads and the perfectly round Roman glass are old Orissa brass, old and rare beads from Orissa state in India. The round charm near the clasp is also old brass from India. Each small Karen silver bead is individually stamped! It's almost mind-boggling to think they are all handmade. The slightly bent clasp is also Karen silver. ◇Karen Silver◇ Silver crafted by the mountain ethnic group living in the Tai regions of Burma. Each piece is handmade, and the purity is said to be very high. Twisting them creates a unique texture. Connected by waxed cord, they may feel a bit stiff initially but will become supple with wear. Size: Approximately 43.5cm (when laid straight). Materials: Old Indian silver, glass, ancient quartz, Mizoram carnelian, ancient agate, Karen silver, old Chin silver, old Orissa brass, mixed metal, waxed cord.