Ancient decorated bead with zig zag decoration. Named 'Kiamei' by N. E Parry in his book The Lakhers (1932). Believed to be Pyu period or earlier.These beads with zig zag stripes are a common decoration in ancient and much later Pumtek beads. Similar ancient beads (created from agate) were also made in India and may have influenced the Pyu beads. They are possibly meant to signify the stripes of a tiger. Although some sellers are known to label them 'Tiger Tooth' beads. When found in a Tibetan context they are sometimes believed to be mountain peaks.

Ancient Pumtek beads

Ancient Pumtek stone beads.

Old silver, amber and Pema Raka (Nepal).

High quality 'NEW' three eyed dZi from the early 1990s. With surface weathering and dig marks to give the appearance of age.

Ancient Agate bead. Sourced in the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal.

Ancient Three Striped Chung dZi.

Ancient Agate bead. Sourced in the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal.

Tibetan Woman, Darjeeling c1910 to 1920. She appears to be wearing a damaged three eyed dZi which is seen to the right of her large silver gau.

Small ancient barrel shaped three eyed dZi.

Ancient Two Eyed dZi bead.

A selection of ancient Tiger dZi.

A highly prized pair of ancient Tiger dZi.

Ancient Tiger dZi without a central stripe and end stripes.

The most sought after Tiger dZi display not only the double stripes that look like waves but also a central stripe and end stripes.

Photograph taken in 1920's or 30s.

Old Bodhiseed Mala with Amber.

A selection of ancient and antique beads sourced in the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal.

A collection of ancient and antique beads sourced in the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal.

A collection of ancient and antique beads sourced in the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal.