Banded Agate Bead, Antique Yemeni Chung Amulet | Natural Stone | 20.2mm, Waxy Glassy Patina - Barrel Bicone

The best part of this bead is the centuries-worn surface and soft contours that reveal a life of handling and use. This elegant piece is a striking natural stone with warm gray and black tones, and its translucency allows light to pass through the material in a way that highlights internal banding and age-related character. The antique yemeni chung in this lot shows genuine micro-wear and an authentic aged surface texture that collectors and makers will immediately recognize, and the waxy glassy patina gives the bead a rich, tactile presence suited to heirloom jewelry or display.

• material: 100% natural banded agate bead, genuine stone with internal banding and translucency.
• dimensions: 20.2mm length; barrel/bicone profile suited to central focal settings or stringing in historic-styled necklaces.
• condition: excellent antique condition with authentic surface pits, soft contours, and genuine micro-wear consistent with ancient manufacturing and centuries of handling.
• finish: glassy, waxy patina developed through prolonged use and handling rather than modern treatment.
• suggested use: focal bead for heirloom jewelry, ethnographic trade bead collection, museum-style display, or historical styling projects.

This item is sold as described in the photos and text; please review all provided images and measurements carefully before purchasing. We try to describe items in as much detail as possible and make photos that show the bead’s characteristics; if you have any doubt about the details, please examine the photos and listed dimensions closely or message us for additional views before ordering.

• shipping & tariffs: all orders shipped to the United States are prepaid with tariffs included, so buyers do not have to pay additional tariff fees upon delivery.
• processing: items are prepared and photographed to reflect the bead you will receive; we pack antiques carefully to protect historic surfaces during transit.
• international buyers: customs, duties, or additional taxes may vary by destination; the prepaid tariff policy applies to U.S. deliveries as stated.

Provenance and notes for collectors: this antique agate bead is presented for its historical and aesthetic qualities rather than as a repaired or altered object; no modern coatings or embellishments are claimed beyond the bead’s naturally developed patina. The black white agate coloration, aged surface texture, and barrel bicone form make this piece particularly suitable for those assembling a focused collection of ancient history bead types or for makers seeking a single, authoritative focal element for a heritage-inspired design.

Care and handling recommendations: treat the bead gently to preserve its waxy glassy patina and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or abrasive polishing; store it separately from harder beads or metals to prevent knocks that could alter the surface pits or soft contours. If you plan to set the bead in metal or string it into jewelry, consider protective settings or soft stringing materials that reduce friction and strain on the drilled aperture.

What’s included: the single antique banded agate focal bead as photographed, described by material, size (20.2mm length), and condition. No additional findings, chains, or mounts are included unless otherwise requested and agreed prior to purchase.

About the shop: we specialize in carefully selected ethnographic and ancient-trade beads, presenting each item with clear photography and measured descriptions so buyers can make informed choices. Please feel welcome to browse our shop for related antique agate beads, barrel bicone shapes, and other natural stone beads; if you need extra photos, measurements, or assistance with a commission or bulk inquiry, send us a message and we will respond with as much detail as we can provide.