A Western Asiatic gold bead, featuring an oval shape. The bead's body displays raised squares formed by a pattern of cross hatched grooves, possibly created using the repoussé technique. The bead has been pierced longitudinally for suspension; however it is now blocked. Minor perforation to the body near one end. Many grand civilisations inhabited the area of the Near East and Western Asia in Antiquity, and their wealth and prosperity is witnessed by the very sophisticated precious metal crafting of jewellery. Gold beads would have been a part of elaborate larger pieces, such as on necklaces or bracelets in the area of Western Asia. Beautiful precious and semi-precious stones would have been added in the larger pieces to signify wealth and social status. These styles were at the centre of Near Eastern and Western Asiatic jewellery production and were later adopted by the Greeks, Etruscans and Romans. Gold necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets would have been worn in everyday life but also buried with the deceased. Measurements: L 0.7cm x W 0.5cm Weight: 0.18g Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.