A Coptic necklace made of steatite beads of various shades and sizes. The necklace is composed of disc-shaped beads, ribbed tubular beads, rounded beads, biconical beads, and polygonal beads. The beads present in hues of brown, cream, red, and white. Please note, this necklace has been restrung on a string. Earthly encrustations and signs of wear as consistent with age such as scratches, pitting, and minor chipping. The Coptic people were descendants of the Egyptians who also spoke a later form of the Egyptian language known as Coptic. Ancient Egyptian scarabs, amulets and necklaces are commonly made of steatite. Steatite, or soapstone, is a stone that due to its great softness has lent itself throughout ancient history to large and small sculpture. Measurements: (circa) Half-length 44.5cm Provenance: From a private UK collection, 1920's-1940's.