Description:

Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Olmec/Proto Mayan, ca. 1150 to 500 BCE. A beautiful necklace comprised of 27 large, blue-green jade beads, carved in tubular, oblong, and lozenge shapes - the magnificent central pendant measuring an impressive 2-1/8" x 1-1/4". A gorgeous, symmetrically composed piece of wearable art! Size: 31"L

Jade was both rare and prized among the ancient Olmec peoples. The brilliant blue hues of Olmec jade derive from the existence of iron and titanium. These particular beads show that classic color with contrasting intricate white veining. Beads such as these were highly valued and reserved for the elite members of Pre-Columbian societies. Beyond this, carving the stone required expert technique, because jade was the second hardest mineral (the hardest being emery) of Mesoamerica. In order to cut, carve, and drill jade beads like these, ancient artisans created their own tools that were also made of jade as well as string saws and leather strops. Scholars estimate that it would have taken hours and hours to carve a single bead. Just imagine the labor that went into the creation of this necklace!



Provenance: Ex-Denenberg Fine Arts, Los Angeles, CA.

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#110118

  • Condition: Minor wear else choice

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October 22, 2015 8:00 AM MDT
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Artemis Fine Arts

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