Product Description: This is a small Ancient Chinese Warring States Bead, featuring slight iridescence on its surface.

Specifications:

• Origin: China
• Estimated Production Era: 5th to 3rd century BCE
• Diameter: 9.5mm
• Length: 7.5mm
• Hole Size: 4mm

Special Notes:

As this is an antique item, it may have scratches, cracks, or chips. There may be chips that appear to have formed more recently. Please check the photos for details.

About Warring States Beads:

Warring States Beads, known as "戦国玉" (Sengokudama), are glass beads crafted during China's Warring States period, roughly from the 5th to 3rd century BCE, before the unification by Qin. The earliest Chinese glass, dating back to the 11th to 8th century BCE, was discovered in Luoyang, Henan Province. However, it was during the Warring States period that glass products began to be widely used. Early Warring States Beads were primarily made from faience, a ceramic material with glass decorations, which later evolved into fully glass beads.

Common patterns include the "Seven Star Bead" and "Eye Bead," characterized by their dotted designs. Although many techniques and design elements were influenced by West Asian regions such as Roman glass, the materials used in Warring States Beads are distinct, showcasing the advanced glass-making technology in ancient China. These beads hold historical significance as the inception of Chinese glass history, and they are cherished by many for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.