Old Amber Bead Strand - Mali

Well over 100 years old. Made of "Bakelite" a phenolic resin - a man made material that looks and feels like amber. It is actually harder than amber, and is more durable and resistant to heat. It was used to trade in West Africa, and is called African amber.
In Africa, yellow amber is thought to attract sunlight and deflect darkness, as well as offer protection against the evil eye.

There are 43 amber beads in this strand. The 43 beads naturally vary in size, shape and color.

Dimensions: 30" Length (lying flat, end to end) Dimensions (Largest Bead): 1 1/4" Diameter x 3/4" W Dimensions (Smallest Bead): 3/8" Diameter x 3/8" W

To clean the amber, use a soft moist cloth and polish with olive oil to restore its luster.

DO NOT use commercial jewelry solutions.

It weighs 8.63 ounces or 244.6564