Antique Carnelian & Agate Trade Beads from Cambay – 31–32 mm Pendants

Beautiful Pair of Antique Carnelian / Agate Trade Beads – Cambay India

Presenting a stunning duo of old Carnelian and Agate trade beads or pendants, sourced from Cambay, India, and featured in Robert K. Liu’s “Collectible Beads,” p. 39. These beads, used in African trade from the 1800s or earlier, show authentic signs of age and light wear evidence of a rich, storied history.

• Size (bead 1): 31 mm × 27 mm × 8 mm
• Size (bead 2): 32 mm × 28 mm × 9 mm
• Perforation: 1.5 – 2 mm diameter

The surfaces bear very minor chips and wear consistent with decades of use, yet both pendants remain in excellent overall condition. Their soft patina and slight abrasions only add to their charm and confirm their status as true antique trade beads.

Cambay (India) Antique Carnelian / Agate Trade Beads

These beads originate from Cambay in Gujarat, India, renowned for producing agate and carnelian stones that were hand‑drilled using traditional bow‑drilling methods. Skilled artisans meticulously shaped and perforated each bead, creating durable, elegant pieces that became highly valued in the African trade, particularly in Ghana and across West Africa.

The importance of Agate trade beads and Antique Carnelian trade beads in West Africa cannot be overstated, they served not only as decorative adornments but also as a form of currency and status symbol in many societies. Today, these beads carry deep cultural resonance and historical significance.

For collectors and bead enthusiasts, this pair offers a rare opportunity to own genuine, aged trade beads with documented provenance and captivating cultural heritage.

Explore more treasures from TribalGH:

• Browse our New African Krobo Glass Beads collection
• See the sold Trade Beads Archives
• Watch how Krobo artists produce their beads