Carnelian, Ancient Etched Indus Valley, 15-20mm long, Set of 6

Set of 6 ancient etched Indus Valley carnelian beads ranging in length from 15-20mm Excellent condition considering their age, 5000 years These beads were produced, and widely traded throughout Afghanistan, the Indus Valley, Mesopotamia and even as far as Ancient Egypt between 2500-1600 BCE After the hard carnelian beads were laboriously shaped, drilled, and polished, the delicate etching process involved making a paste of sodium carbonate with the juice of a plant, painting it onto the bead, and firing at precise temperatures.