Ghanaian Fante Necklace and Bracelet Tigers Eye and Rare Shell Beads

From the collection of Müge Törüner Collier.

This beautiful necklace and bracelet set was purchased by the current owner 30 years ago, in Senegal.

They are originally from Ghana and made for a bride, probably from the Fante.

The white beads, which look like coral (and are often called white coral), are either made from the giant Tridacna clam shell or Bull Mouth Helmet Shell . Fishing for them is now prohibited, so vintage examples like these are scarce and highly prized. As I understand it, they’re often harvested from underground and in deserts, for example in Mali where they’re called ‘Corail du desert’.

The beads in between are tigers eye quartz. Very beautiful patterns and all in fantastic condition.

The clasp on both bracelet and necklace are 12k gold filled (hallmarked). The finials or spacers on each side of the white beads, appear to be gold wash over silver.

Bracelet- 25cm long. 6cm inner diameter when closed. 18 grams.
Necklace- 42cm long. 13cm inner diameter when closed. 44 grams.

Was £250.00 GBP
Now £200.00 GBP

Photograph: Africa | Fanti woman with tekua hairstyle, worn on important public occasions such as weddings or funerals. Her gold hair ornaments probably mean a wedding, since dark, red, or silver are for funerals. ca. 1971. Ghana | ©Eliot Elisofon
Via Pinterest.

Worldwide shipping with Royal Mail – Tracked and Insured – Approximate Fees:

Local shipping £12
European Shipping £21
USA & Canada shipping £24
Worldwide shipping £30

payment via paypal
I will happily combine purchases for shipping up to 500g at no extra cost