A restrung Western Asiatic necklace composed of vibrant orange hardstone beads. The body of the necklace is composed of small rounded, cylindrical, and disc-shaped beads, mostly uniform in size. A stack of four larger beads acts as a pendant at the centre of the necklace, composed of two rounded beads, a larger cuboid bead, and an orange hoop bead through which the necklace is threaded. Each bead presents a unique shape and hue, reflecting their antique and hand-crafted qualities. Some beads feature linear striations. Some chips and wear consistent with age. Please note this necklace is unclasped and threaded on string. Jewellery is thought to be one of the oldest forms of art within history, with the presence of rings, bangles and necklaces’ being present in almost all ancient societies. Many grand civilisations inhabited the area of Western Asia in antiquity, and their wealth and prosperity are demonstrated through their sophisticated jewellery making. Precious and semi-precious stones, such as agate, lapis lazuli, and carnelian, were also widely used as well as glass, coral, stones and metal. Measurements: (circa) Half-length 34.7cm, beaded half-length 21cm Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.