Ca. 19th century AD or earlier.An elongated shape agate bead pendant with applied gold fittings on both terminals, decorated with filigree. The bead design suggests the origin of the “Dzi bead”. Although the geographic origin is uncertain, it is accepted that they are now generally known as 'Tibetan beads'. The Dzi are stone beads worn as part of a necklace or bracelet. Many Asian cultures around Tibet prize Dzi as protective amulets and for positive spiritual benefits. Artisans used agate as the base stone and then embellished the bead's lines and shapes using ancient methods that remain unknown. Treatments may have included darkening with plant sugars and heat, bleaching and white line etching with natron, and protecting certain areas with grease, clay, wax, or a similar substance. The number of "eyes" (circular designs on the stone), is considered to be significant.Size: L:10.3mm / W:34.9mm ; 8.84gProvenance: Private UK collection; From an old British collection formed in the 1990s.