Three-coloured agate ‘Dzi’ bead, Ming dynasty

Agate carved in the shape of a sheath, elongated with rounded edges, slightly narrower at the ends, with a central hole through which a cord can be attached. It has three colours: ochre with reddish spots at the ends, white in the centre, and black or brown in the central geometric decorations. 

This type of object was used as part of traditional Buddhist ornaments and elements. It shows widespread patina caused by the passage of time. Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644) or later. 

Size: 1.6 x 1.6 x 5.7 cm

Weight: 24 g