Small Carved Shells, Mali, Set of 10 silver match box 18 inch sterling silver 1mm

18 inch sterling silver 1mm rope or snake chain with soldered ends connecting to a small lobster claw clasp

15mm long x 21mm in diameter

Irregular sizes average 6mm in diameter x 3-6mm long beads

10mm x 11mm

Strands are a mix of light and dark brass

Small Carved Shells, Mali, Set of 10 silver match box 18 inch sterling silver 1mmThese intricately carved antique shell beads are traditionally worn by Malian women in 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, dangling from earrings, or capping a fancy bead. Size ranges from 10 14mm diameter. Sold as a set of 10. Hand carved in Mali early 1900's. No two sets alike!