Strand of Carved Shell "Bead Caps" from Mali multistrand Ancient trade wind bead from

Ancient trade wind bead from Java

29mm tall x 32mm wide x 2mm thick (semi-solid silver backing)

Average size 13mm x 15mm

21mm diameter x 4mm thick

Each bead is slightly different (see photos)

Strand of Carved Shell "Bead Caps" from Mali multistrand Ancient trade wind bead from26" strand of intricately carved shell beads from West Africa. These hand carved beads are traditionally worn against the scalp by Mali women with fancy braided hairdo's and are shaped like a bead cap. Some have one hole, some have two (like a button). Great for setting into silver bezels or capping a fancy bead. Size ranges from 10 18mm diameter. Over 150 beads in each strand!