16" Egyptian Cowrie shell/Carnelian necklace

     The Cowrie shells were adapted from a belt found in a tomb at Abydos. The belt is now in the collection of the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. This type of belt was worn by women in the Middle Kingdom (2040-1640 B.C.E.). These shells have amuletic significance. Original image on left.
     24K antique gold-plate over pewter enhanced by Carnelian beads. Approximately 16" (40cm) long.
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