Ancient Pumtek beads from Burma. These beads are believed to date to the Pyu/Tircul period. The Pyu people were of Sino-Tibetan origin and were distinct from other Burmans. They establised the first state in Burma. Pumtek clearly have a lot in common with ancient dZi. It is possible that dZi beads influenced Burmese beads makers to create their own comparable beads. Pumtek are made from fossilised or petrified palmwood which is regarded as a variety of chalcedony. In Burma they are also known as 'Chin Pati' (Chin Beads) and are still highly prized as heirloom beads by the Chin people.
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