{"product_id":"antique-faceted-banded-agate-trade-bead-idar-oberstein-germany","title":"Antique Faceted Banded Agate Trade Bead - Idar Oberstein, Germany","description":"\u003ch2\u003eStunning Antique Faceted Banded Agate Trade Bead - Idar Oberstein, Germany\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscover the timeless elegance of this antique faceted banded Agate trade bead from Idar Oberstein, Germany, circa late 1800s. Once exchanged in African trade routes, this bead carries rich history and artisanal craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 42 mm × 12 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/strong\u003e Natural banded Agate, faceted\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Idar Oberstein, Germany\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e Late 19th century (circa 1880–1900)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent vintage condition; minor wear consistent with age\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis antique Agate bead is a fine example of Agate trade beads: hand‑cut and faceted in Germany’s historic gemstone center. Each facet beautifully captures and reflects light, highlighting the natural color bands within the stone. A rare piece of history, perfect for collectors, jewelry makers, and cultural art enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Faceted Agate Beads from Idar Oberstein\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdar Oberstein, in southwest Germany, has been a gemstone‑cutting hub for centuries. Craftsmen there pioneered lapidary techniques to facet Agate beads with precision and artistry. These faceted Agate beads were highly prized in 19th‑century African trade, especially in Ghana and across West Africa, where they became known as Agate trade beads. Traders valued their durability, beauty, and symbolic significance in ceremonies, dowries, and status displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAgate Trade Beads in Ghana \u0026amp; Africa\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Africa, especially in Ghana, antique Agate beads from Europe like this became symbols of wealth, prestige, and cultural exchange. Often used in chieftaincy rites, traditional garments, and as heirlooms, they remain cherished artifacts of African-European trade and cultural history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOwn a piece of this rich legacy, a faceted, banded Agate trade bead from Idar Oberstein, steeped in 19th‑century global exchange and artisan mastery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExplore more treasures:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNew African Krobo Glass Beads by TribalGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArchives: Sold African Trade Beads by TribalGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow Krobos Produce Their Beads (YouTube)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Tribalgh","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67825968939286,"sku":"hax1793095454957","price":12.4,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0997\/9238\/8374\/files\/antique-faceted-banded-agate-trade-bead---idar-oberstein-germany_1.jpg?v=1793095460","url":"https:\/\/kimtrellis.shop\/products\/antique-faceted-banded-agate-trade-bead-idar-oberstein-germany","provider":"My Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}