I have run out of room on this page.  Clicking on the above image will take you to page #2 with a list of items from Burma, Thailand, Laos, Indonesia and Timor.

   CH610.   These beads are called "Sherpa coral" often used in places like Tibet as a substitute for true coral.  These beads were made in China and are over 100 years old.  Sherpa coral comes in a variety of shades but these are a deep strong red.  These mix well with others.  Strand #1 is 27 inches long - $65.US.   Strand #2 is 24 inches long - $65.US.   Strand #3 is 24 inches long - $65.US.   Strand #4 are fat tubular beads - 27 inches long -  $95.US.   (#1 is available) 
   CH614.   These mixed glass bead strands bought in Thailand measure an average of 26 inches long.  Most of the beads are wound ones from China, but every once in a while there is something else tossed in.   $28.US/each strand.    (#1, #2, #6, #7, #8 & #9 are sold  -   #3, #4 & #5 are available)
   CH618.   I have three old Dong bracelets here.  They are similar but each has its own character.  The bracelets were made from sheets of flat silver which has been hammered with a high decoration from behind, then wrapped around something and hammered into shape.  There is a lot of work involved in making these including the perfection of the shapes and the annealing that has to happen with the hammering to keep the silver from breaking.  A similar one is shown on page 247 of "A World of Bracelets".  Bracelet #1 is 2 3/8 by 11/2 inches on the inside and weighs 38.5 grams -  $96.  (#1 is sold)    Bracelet #2 is 2 1/8 by 1 7/8 inches across on the inside and weighs 66.4 grams -  $166.US.   Bracelet #3 is 2 1/4 by 1 1/2 inches across on the inside and weighs 52.4 grams -  $130.US.    (#1 & #3 are sold)
   CH622.   These are two Miao containers made of good silver.  They have three sections to them so that they can be used for storage.  I think it is for lime or betal nut, but you can choose to store what you wish.   #1 is newly made and 6 3/4 inches tall including the dangles -  $110.US.  #2 is an antique piece, 6 1/2 inches tall with dangles - $200.US.   (#2 is sold)
   CH624.  This is a silver buckle which is 4 inches across.  The silver wire with the button soldered to it gets sewn on one side of a jacket or tunic, and the scalloped large piece gets sewn on the other.  One hooks the the button into the dome to shut it tight..  This is generally used by Lahu and Akha people of the Golden Triangle, and at times by the Lisu.   - $145.US.
   CH626.   This delicate antique good silver Chinese tool kit is 14 inches tall.  Each part of this is carefully and gracefully made.  There are two tools hanging from it - once there were three.  There is one hoop left to hold something else in the middle but it is not strong so if you are to hang something there it should be quite light weight.  This is 19th century and very attractive.   $240.US.
   CH627.   This is a very interesting antique Chinese tool kit.  There should be another tool in the middle but that is long gone.  The wonderful thing on this piece is the unusual enamelling on the good silver.  The entire piece is 12 1/4 inches long and would be great as a pendant or as a belt hanging.   $260.US.
   CH629.   Here are some more Chinese silver pieces .  #1 is 2 5/8 inches tall and was once sewn onto a hat or textile.  $60.US.   #2 is a lion with holes for sewing it onto a textile  - $60.US.  #3 is a silver lock -  $55.US.   #4 is a pair of silver hooks with butterflies on them - 3 1/4 inches tall with a 1 3/8 inch long hook behind - $125.US/pair     (#1 & #2 are sold)
   CH635.   This spiraling silver Dong bracelet is a beautiful thing, but small with an inside diameter of 2 3/8 inches across.  Made for a very slender wrist so please measure a bangle of yours to make sure that this can slip over your hand.   The silver is hammered into a shape where it becomes narrower and narrower - it narrows at its ends so that it can wind gracefully around the original hoop.  This is all one piece of metal - thickest in the underlying piece and thinnest in the wire spiraling around it.  That is quite an amazing job to create it.   To see a similar piece, turn to page 248 of "a World of Bracelets". $160.US.   
   CH640.   These are 22 to 24 inch long strands of Indo-Pacific bead strands - hundreds of years old, perhaps a thousand...  These were used all over Southeast Asia for constructing necklaces.  If you see the preview window at 1 1/4 inches tall, then you will see them close to life-size.   $36.US/each strand  
   CH645.   I have two strands of beads here which were bought in Thailand.  Strand #1 has 4 full length strands, each measuring  36 inches long.  2 short strands are attached as well.  The patterns of red and pale grey beads look great and are accented with blues and greens.  Some odd little beads are hidden here and there.  $185.US.   Strand #2  is made up of 3 strands, each measuring  32 inches long.  The colours are rich and brilliant together.  $165.US.
   CH646.   This is a heavy (131 gram) silver bracelet from the Golden Triangle area.  The same type can be seen on page 269 of "A World of Bracelets".  It says there "Numerous groups share the magnificent variations on the motif of multiple wires twisted to imitate rope.  All these designs require great ability to make and are rooted in ancient traditions."    The bracelet measures 2 inches by 1 3/4 inches on the inside.  It seems perfect for a wrist of about 7 inches around.  $430.US    ON SALE   $380.US.
  CH649.   There are three strands of beads and bells from the Chin people of Southeast Asia.  The strands were tied together for wear but were easy to un-knot to sell separately as they are quite heavy.   Strand #1 is  26 inches long - $225.US.   Strand #2 is 18 inches long - $200.US.   Strand #3 is  23 inches long - $230.US.  
  CH652.   Here is a second substantial antique silver tool kit from the Hmong or Shan people - bought in Rangoon, Burma.  It weighs a little over 250 grams, hangs from a 21 inch long chain with a clasp on it so that it can be worn as a necklace.  The pendant itself is quite ornate and 9 1/4 inches long.  It has the magical fish hanging within it.  The dangles are elaborate hiding tools in-between.  The decorative work is the same on both sides.  It is more and more difficult to find such attractive tool kits.   $650.US.    ON SALE   $550.US.
  CH653.   This necklace is a bargain for its 4 fat strands of carnelian from the Chin people in Southwestern Burma.  There are some crystals in there as well, and they are all drawn up into shells with cords at the back (the necklace can be tied on) protected by cylinder shapes made of wound brass wire.  Each of the four bead strands averages about 20 inches long with beads of various shapes.  The largest round bead is slightly over an inch in diameter.  I often take these apart and sell the strands individually but am offering a bargain price for them all together.  I do like the look of the finished piece.  This piece was bought around Rangoon, Burma where beautifully tattooed women show off weighty beads like these while smoking their pipes.  $800.US.    ON SALE   $680.US.
  CH654.   There are more than 40 inches of beads on this strand, consisting of carnelian, glass and silver.  I love the two spotted beads and the pendant which is a piece of horn.  I don't know of what animal, just that it has a great colour and texture and must have been found in the forests after the animal shed it.  $355.US.
  CH662.   I have three silver antique Chinese rings illustrated here (slightly enlarged in size) - the first two are hallmarked.  The second and third are foolishly upside-down.  The rings are made to be adjustible as many  Chinese rings are - but because these are old the silver will not bend easily so it is best not to try to adjust them but accept the sizes as they are.  Ring #1 with the floral/star pattern is a size 8 - $40.US.   Ring #2 has a butterfly pattern on it and is a size 9 - $40.US.   Ring #3 has a plump fish on it.  Size 9 - $40.US.   
  CH663.     These two enameled Chinese antique rings are both hallmarked.  They are enamelled with beautiful designs as well - shown here in a slightly enlarged size.  The rings are typically made with adjustible backs but since they are so old, I would not recommend trying to adjust them very much.  Silver does get less supple over time.  Ring #1 has a flower on it.  The blue is not quite as bright as the photo shows.  The ring is a size 7.5 - $50.US.   Ring #2 has a tiny butterfly on leaves set in a geometric shape.  It is a size 7.5 - $45.US.  
  CH665.   This is a ready to wear strand of dyed coral beads from China.  The natural colour of the coral is white or pale pink but this shade of red is very realistic.  The strand is 16 inches long and the beads decide which way they want to sit in.  It is very attractive and looks great with jeans and t-shirt as well as with dressy clothes...  $250.US.
  CH667.   This is an antique low end silver bracelet bought  in South East Asia.  It is 1 5/16 inches tall and can be easily (carefully) shaped to fit to the wrist.  This is for an average wrist size - not a small one.   $45.US.
  CH669.   Theses pieces are from various parts of Laos.  Pendant #1 has a 3 3/4 inch long chain with a 1 3/8 inch long fish.   $30.US.   Pendant #2 is a 2 1/2 inch long set of tweezers.  The entire piece is 5 1/4 inches long.   $42.US.   Pendant #3 is 5 1/4 inches long.  The silver case opens from the side so that something precious can be tucked inside.  It has patterns of branches and flowers decorating it.  The heart shaped box is 7/8 inches tall and just under 1 inch at the widest.   $48.US.   Pendant #4 is also a chain with a heart shaped box.  The entire piece is 3 3/4 inches long, and the box is 7/8 inch thick and 14/16 inches across.  It opens from the side as well.   $40.US.   Pendant #6 is a 16 1/4 inch long piece with a chain for suspension, a 19th century 20 cent coin from the Republique Francaise, and a grooming kit below.   $158.US.   (#2 & #6 are available)
  CH670.   There are three silver chained pendant pieces here.  #1 is an elaborate silver piece composed of many parts.  Two chains hang from a ring 1 1/8 inch in diameter.  One seven inch chain suspends a box an inch across and just under 7/8 inch tall when closed.  Something secret can be hidden in the box.  An 8 3/4 inch long chain suspends a curlique which holds two chains.  Those chains attache to a panel with floral decorations on it.  It looks rather like a vase full of flowers.  From that a grooming kit falls.  The entire piece hangs 22 inches long from the ring at the top.  This was bought in southern Laos and is possibly a Yao piece.  $425.US.   #2 is a coin pendant with a grooming kit attached to it.  The chain is 23 inches around and can be slipped over the average head.  The coin is from the Republique Francaise 1922 and is noted for weighing 27 grams.  The pendant plus grooming kit is 6 inches long.   $310.US.   #3 is a pair of hooks attached with a set of 3 chains.  They could work well suspending a pendant that has some kinds of loops on it, like a good sized spirit lock.  The chains are 24 inches long and the decorative parts of the hooks are 2 1/4 inches long.   $255.US.   (#3 is sold)
  CH671.   This three dimensional silver fish is a real charmer bought in southern Laos and most likely from the Yao people.  It is nicely decorated but the patterns have been softened by wear and have caused it to imply the blur of a living creature swimming under water.  The fish is just under 2 3/4 inches across.  The fish is attached to a double chain which is fastened on each side to jump rings just under 7/8 inch across.  The chains measure 9 3/4 inches on each side adding up to 19 1/2 inches total.  If you would like to fasten the rings together as in a necklace ask me to include a silver jump ring to make that connection.  A grooming kit hangs from the fish.  Over the years three jump rings above the fish have been worn though and have been replaced with string.  It wouldn't be difficult to change the string back to silver rings.  This would make a very charming necklace.   $385.US.
  CH672.   Fish have a strong symbolic value in southeast Asia speaking of continued life.  This antique grooming kit was bought in southern Laos and is most likely a Yao piece.  The piece was once fastened to something else but could easily become the eye catching pendant of a necklace.  There are lots of tools, chains, dangles, bells - a confusion of pieces hanging together.  The silver gleams nicely and everything has a good old look to it.  The central pendant is held together at one point with string - which is a typical solution to a missing jump ring - you see this in photos in reference books.  I like leaving things as they are but a silver hoop could replace the string.  The entire piece is 13 inches long.  The fish is 1 /8 inches across.   $245.US.
  CH674.   There is an interesting variety of differently shaped spirit locks in this group.  These are made by using sheet silver and then hammering the shapes of the arms to be more rounded.  These carry the magic of their symbolism with them, helping to hold the wearer to the safety of the earth below, and helping to protect them from harm.   Spirit lock #1 is a little over 2 3/8 inches wide and 2 5/8 inches tall.  The loops have been untypically soldered into place.   $80.US.   Spirit lock #2 is a shape that I don't see as often.  The piece is a little wider than 2 5/8 inches.   $40.    Lock #3 is soldered into place as well.  It measures 2 inches wide across the bottom.   $40.US.   Spirit lock # 4 is 1 3/4 inches long and very carefully made.   $35.US.   Spirit lock #5 is a small half moon shape 1 3/4 inches across.  It nicely has jump rings on it for suspension.   $30.US.   (#2, #4 & #5 are sold, #1 & #3 are available)
  CH675.    I have a beautiful collection of good silver antique spirit locks, each of them showing  wear from the past in the area where they would have been suspended.  There are more spirit locks on this page as well, and it is important to choose one that has the best feeling for you.  The spirit locks were used by the Hmong in their "soul calling" ceremonies to "lock" the soul of the wearer into his or her own body.  They are worn by children, women and men for all of their lives.  Their shapes somehow express their meanings with large patterned areas and delicate swirls above.  These are among my favourite of all objects, and when I am feeling a little ill at ease, or lacking in direction or motivation, I wear a spirit lock myself and feel somehow aided and protected.  My chosen locks will be with me forever.  A thing of spirit is a good thing.  The locks can be worn with a variety of chains or a cord depending on what suits them the most.  The same types of styles work for men too, perhaps with heavy-ish chains.   Spirit lock #1 has slim arms and a decorative section that is longer than it is wide.  The piece is 3 1/8 inches wide and 3 3/8 inches tall.  It has a delicate and graceful look to it.   $150.US.      Spirit lock #2 is 3 inches wide and fairly light weight.  It has a very nice balance to it.   $135.US.     Spirit lock #3 has heavy and sturdy arms with deep decorations hammered all around them.  The central part has a very detailed pattern on it.   Spirit lock #4 is very straightforward.  The arms are quite fine and the central part quite rectangular with an attractive overall pattern.   $110.      Spirit lock #5 is made from a flat slice of silver.  The curls remind me of the shape of a fern/fiddlehead in the spring.  The piece is 2 1/4 inches tall.   $66.US.   (all are now sold)
  CH676.   These Hmong spirit locks were collected in local markets in southern Laos.  These are generally suspended from torques but we generally prefer to attach them to chains or cords.  The torques are often sold separately at high collectors prices as they are generally heavy with silver.  With the interesting clothing and layers of colours in Laos complicated arrangements of torques and chains and multiple spirit locks looks wonderful and are worn on special occasions.  Here the simplicity of a single spirit lock and its chain or cord seems more appropriate.   Spirit lock #1 is 3 5/8 inches wide and has widespread "arms" to give it grace.  The pattern is simple and attractive.   $200.US.   Spirit lock #2 is very worn smooth especially on the arms.  There are indents where the silver jump rings were and and rubbed against the silver to make a space for themselves.  The lock is 3 3/4 inches across with a simple pattern that has a modern as well as a traditional look.  $225.US.   Spirit lock #3 has a wide and substantial look to it.  It is nicely smoothed from rubbing it for good fortune.  There is a softness to the wear and a little extra smoothing where the suspension rings were.   $235.US.   Lock # 4 is 3 1/5 inches across.  It has a slightly quirky look to it as each side is a little different from the other.  It is deeply carved and very attractive.   $180.US.   Spirit lock #5 is the smallest of this group.  It measures 3 1/8 inches across and has an attractive delicacy to it.   $150.US.   Spirit lock #6 has the jump rings remaining on it to make it easier to string up.  The lock is 3 1/2 inches across and lightly punched with a detailed design.  It has been lightly smoothed from hanging and touching...  $220.US.   #2 & #4 are sold, #1, #3, #5 & #6 are still available)
  CH677.   Spirit lock #1 is 3 3/4 inches across at the widest.  It still has old rings on it for hanging from so it would be easy to slip on a chain and shut the spring rings shut.  The design on this piece is delicate with complex and tiny patterns.  $345.US.   Spirit lock #2 is 3 5/8 inches across and has double rings on each side.  It is not quite as old as the rest of the group.   $285.US.   Spirit lock #3 is over 50 yrs old and has nice wear on the "handles" from where it had been hung.  The lock is just over 3 3/8 inches wide.   $205.US.   Spirit lock #4 is just under 4 1/4 inches across.  It is very well worn where the chains had been for hanging it and shows its age very nicely.  The pattern at the front is smoothed from being touched over time so that it feels very calm.   $298.US.    Spirit lock #5 has large arms which open like clouds over the rectangular part.  All is nicely smoothed from being touched over time, and there is some nice wear where it was strung up before.   $240.US.   Spirit lock #6 is 3 3/8 inches across.  It is deeply patterned with a strong texture to it.  It is quite dark from tarnish and can be rubbed to bring up a gleam.  $235.US.   (#4 is sold, the others are still available)
  CH680.   This is a taller, heavier version of the antique Akha bracelets above - from northern Laos.  They have the same type of construction - a flat piece of hand hammered silver decorated with twisted silver wires soldered solidly on.  The hammered decorative panels at the ends are very evocative of the mysteries of the hills and forests from where they came.  The bracelets are 2 1/2 by 2 1/4 inches across on the inside.  They stand 3 inches tall with an opening of 1 inch.  I do like the way that the bracelets curve in a little from top to bottom - it creates an exotic look.  You can see similar bracelets on page 264 of "A World of Bracelets".   $855.US/pair.
  CH682.   Here is a good sized Yao silver dragon box bought near Xam Nua.  The box is 2 inches across at the widest, and 1 1/8 inches tall.  It is beautifully patterned on all sizes with dragon images.  The box opens from the side to reveal a drawer - a safe place for a precious item.  There is a nice combination of beads and pendant and chain that adds up to 12 1/2 inches.  This is a wonderful place for a special gift that can be hung in an exotic way.   $185.US.   (sold)
  CH683.   Strand after strand after strand of glass beads....  There are 30 strands altogether in a full variety of colours.  The beads average 18 to 20 inches long.  They are woven together at the back of the necklace and buttoned shut with a 1919 brass coin from India.  This necklace has come out of Nagaland.  The colours are deeper and richer than they appear in the photo.  $450.US.
  CH684.   This is a big bundle of red beads, typical of Nagaland.  There are six strands of them - each measuring about 36 inches long with two types of beads.  The entire group is sold together for $325.US.
  CH685.   What wonderful rings!!  The rings themselves are new and made from sterling silver - the dragons on the rings though, are antique Burmese opium weights.  This is a great combination.  The smaller ring, #1 is 1 1/2 inches tall and a size 8.  $150.US.   The larger ring is 1 7/8 inches tall and a size 9.  $165.US.   (#1 is sold)
  CH691.   I have always liked needle cases of all kinds.  These Chinese silver ones are my favourites though.  I love the way that the holder pieces slide out of the decorative cases.  Strings go through the top of one side, and through the bottom of the same side, then some have beads or a pendant hanging at the bottom and the string continues up the other side from bottom to top.  This string keeps the bottom from falling out.  When you want to reach for a needle (or whatever else you might have hidden in there) then you loosen the hanging cord and pull the pieces apart.  These could be parts of a necklace or strung up to hang from a waistband like in the old days.  Please check page26 to 29 in "Four Centuries of Silver".  They are all more attractive than they appear in the photo.   Case #1 is 3 1/4 inches long.  $115.US.   Case #2 is 3 inches long and has a signature on the inside piece.  $145.US.   #3 is 2 7/8 inches long and it has a signature on the inside piece.  $145.US.   #4 is 3 1/5 inches long.  $115.US.   (#1 & #4 are available,  #2 & #3 are sold)
  CH698.   Here is an interesting necklace made from a mix of very old beads ranging from pumtek beads to melon shaped carnelians and agates.  It is for a collector who can appreciate them.  The necklace is 17 1/2 inches long and closes with a wooden button and a loop.   $750.US.
  CH699.   This is an iron age shell bead from Khmer.  Much has been unearthed over the years.  The bead has a soft looking finish to it, although it is not soft at all.  You can see the long curves of the patterns of the shell on the outside of the bead.  It is 2 7/8 inches long and 3/4 inch in diameter.   $95.US.
  CH701.   This is a gorgeous pair of spiral silver bracelets collected in Taidam Laos coming out of the Golden Triangle.  They were worn by the Wa and Lawa.  According to page 272 of "A World of Bracelets "They represent the repetitive rhythms of life and the being's permanence over the transience of change".  The bracelets are constructed from a hammered wire, rounded on one side and flat on the other.  The ends wind nicely around a ring of the spiralling silver.  These bracelets are 2 3/8 to 2 1/2 inches in diameter.  The bracelets are a sculpural 3 3/4 inches tall.  These are best for someone who can make a small fist and slip the bracelet over.  When pushing the bracelet on one can uncurl it a little to ease it over the hand.  If the bracelets are just a little too tight while putting them on a jeweller could unwind them a little to open the hole a little more.   $1050.US/pair -     ON SALE    $800.US.
  CH703.   This grooming set is set up to wind around the waist (it would need a clasp though as a round hoop keeps it shut) but can easily be used as a necklace as it can slip over one's head.   The suspension chain is 26 inches long.  The coin pendant is 1 5/8 inch across and from Indochine Francaise/Republique Francaise 1888.  The coin, chains and tools are 6 inches in length.  The piece has darkened nicely but can be rubbed a little to bring up the gleam.  This is very attractive.   $355.US.
  CH705.   This is a great dangle coming from Laos.  It jingles quite a lot if you move it at all as there are so many different parts.  The entire piece is 7 1/2 inches long and it has a very sturdy solid hook for hanging.  By adding a silver hoop here and there it could be manipulated into being a bracelet - it just takes a little imagination to change things.   $145.US.
  CH709.   These two silver discs are old and interesting.  They were collected near Muang Long/Xien Kok along the Chinese/Burma border.  The smaller chest piece #1 is 3 inches across and cut and decorated ike the petals of a flower.  It has a delicate doming to it.  On the front you can see the two rivets of the hook fastened to the back.  It can be used to hang it as a pendant.   $95.US.   Disc #2 is quite a lot larger - 4 5/8 inches across and again, cut like a flower.  The piece is smooth with a small dome in the center.  There are two holes for hanging.  It is good to see these old antique pieces.   $155.US.
  CH711.   This is an antique well used silver lime container bought in northeast Laos near Xam Nua.  It has a typical areca nut shaped lid and still has a coating of white lime inside.  The lime is used while chewing betel leaves and areca nuts which is a tradition in Loas, Vietnam and other parts.  The piece is 5 inches tall when closed and the base is 1 1/4 inches in diameter.  A string ties the two parts together so that the hands are free to roll the leaf up, and perhaps wrap it around the nut.   $320.US.
  CH714.   This is a piece in transition.  There is a 13 inch long chain above the fish and three 10 1/2 inch long chains below.  The fish inbetween measures1 3/4 inches across from mouth to tail.  This was collected in northwest Laos (Muang Sing area) from a local landowner.  It would originally have been from a larger piece.  It totals 25 inches in length.   $320.US. 
  CH715.   Container #1 - $95.US.   Container #2 - $115.US.
  CH716.   Container #1 - $165.US.   Container #2 - $165.US   
  CH717.   I have a series of beads strung up to around 30 inches or so.  There are fine tubulars, twisted tubulars, ones with light facets - as well as the round beads sometimes matching and sometimes contrasting.  I believe they are made in China with the tubulars being very similar to antique European ones.  The tubular beads average 3 inches in length.  $45.US/strand   (#1 & #6 are sold)
  CH718.    I have a series of beads strung up to around 30 inches or so.  There are fine tubulars, twisted tubulars, ones with light facets - as well as the round beads sometimes matching and sometimes contrasting.  I believe they are made in China with the tubulars being very similar to antique European ones.  The tubular beads average 3 inches in length.  $45.US/strand   (#1 & #4 are sold)
  CH719.   I have some 16 inch long strands of new turquoise beads from China here.  They are nicely graduated and will be interesting to work with.  They remind me of Southwestern turquoise strands.  The fattest beads on the strand are about 7/16 inch in diameter.  The smallest are just under 3/16 inch in diameter.   $65.US/each strand.
  CH720.   I had beads for sale like these last year and they sold quite quickly.  These are the only ones that I was able to find this year - so when they are gone, they are gone.  The strands are 18 inches long and the beads are a variety of sizes .  The beads are an interesting shape - not rounded but eye shaped.  It makes them sit in an interesting way.  These are new beads that are hand shaped but they look very good with old pieces.   $18.US/each strand.   
   CH722.   There are two items here, a pair of silver chopsticks which are chained together, and a hair pin.  The chopsticks are made of solid silver cut in a rectangular shape.  They are 8 1/4 inches long with attractive hammered patterns on them.  These are antique pieces.   $128.US.   The hair pin is a hollow silver piece finely decorated with silver wire at the top and hung with two small dangles.  The hair pin is 8 1/8 inches long.   $56.US.      (hair pin is sold)
  CH723.   This 4 1/2 inch tal betel nut container was bought in Timor.  This is 50 years old or less and was being used when it was bought.  It is nicely shaped and inscribed with patterns.  The top and bottom have a floral design etched into them as well.  You can see a change of colour on all of the soldered lines - they used whatever metal they had to join the pieces so the method of manufacture is evident.   $280.US.
  CH725.   What a magical image these bracelets convey.  Very decorative pieces are made in Timor - this one with birds and a home or umbrella.  The piece is 20  or 30 years old continuing a long tradition.  The bracelet needs someone with a slim wrist to slip it on.  The insides measure 2 1/16 by 1 3/4 inches across on the inside and the openings are 7/8 and 5/8 inches across.  A good and experienced jeweller might be able to pry them open a little wider but there are no guarantees.  From the top of the umbrella to the bottom of the bracelet it measures about 3 1/2 inches.  The pair of bracelets is  $330.US.      ON SALE   $290.US.
  CH726.   Here is a very attractive, old, and nicely smoothed bell bracelet from Timor.  You can see more on pages 296/297 of "A World of Bracelets".  The bracelets are worn and during dances they are often slipped off and held in the hands so that the bells sit over the knuckles.  They become part of the music.  This bracelet has a very narrow opening (5/8 inches) so needs a slim arm if it is going to be worn on the wrist.  The bracelet measures 2 1/8 by 1 1/2 inches across on the inside.  The bracelet measures 2 7/8 inches tall from the top of the bells to the bottom of the bracelet.  The sound that it makes is quite lovely.   $235.US.
  CH727.   Here is another attractive, old, worn bell bracelet from Timor.  I can imagine it being worn with ringing sounds when walking or gripped by a dancer creating more volume.  This sits nicely on my wrist which is rather oval shaped and not rounded at all.  I do like the way that it feels.  Inside it is 2 1/4 inches by 1 1/2 inches across.  From the top of the bell to the bottom of the bracelet measures slightly over 3 inches.  The diameter of the bell is 1 1/4 inches.  It is very attractive and would look great in a display case as well.   $295.US.
  CH728.   This beautiful pair of bracelets works very well on a 6 inch wrist.  They are from Timor and similar pieces can be seen on pages 296/297 of "A World of Bracelets".  They look beautiful turned in either direction, with the decorative part (tiny spirals of silver wire) facing forwards or the gleaming silver smooth side.  The bracelets are 2 1/4 by 1 5/8 inches across on the inside.  They are 3/4 to 7/8 inches tall.   $245.US/the pair.
  CH730.   Here is one more single bracelet similar to the ones above.  The bracelet is 2 1/5 by 1 3/4 inches across on the inside.  The opening is a bit over 1 inch wide and the bracelet is about 7/8 inches tall.  I find this to be a very attractive design that highlights the shape of the arm.   $135.US.  
  CH731.  Here is a simple, direct bell bracelet.  It needs a very flat wrist for wearing and works easily gripped while dancing in the tradition of Timor.  You can see similar pieces on pages 196/197 of "A World of Bracelets".  The bracelet is 2 3/4 inches wide on the inside, and 1 1/4 inch at the tallest.  The opening is just under 1 inch wide.  The bell has a diameter of 1 1/4 inches.   $185.US.   
  CH735.   I have always liked Tibetan rings but have been inconsistent and put another one on the EAST page.  This antique ring is large but when the dealer acquired it the ring band had cord wound round and round the back of it to bring it to the correct size of the wearer.  He removed it but the new wearer can resize it in the traditional way.  It is a size 13 or so at the moment.  I wouldn't try altering the shape of the silver at the back to make it smaller as silver becomes breakable after years of changing it.  A good and experience jeweller might be able to safely do it but I wouldn't try otherwise.  The ring has a natural deeply coloured coral bead set on its side as the cabochon.  It measures an inch from top to bottom in the photo.   $195.US.
  CH737.   This is a very attractive metal pendant originating in Tibet.  I do need to learn what it represents.  This is 3 7/8 inches tall and is typically engraved with a floral design.  It is quite thick and looks from the back as if it was made from molten metal.  The pendant loop was a flat piece that has been hammered so that it diminishes in thickness and was then turned to make the loop.  This is all very attractive.   $120.US   
  CH739.   Here is a small strand of nice old Chinese beads.  The large (just under 3/4 inch in diameter) blue bead with multicoloured patterns on it is from the minorities trade.  There are discussions as to where they were made from the Boshan workshop in Shandong province (check "Collectible Beads") or Thailand, Burma or Yunnan.  The strand is 6 inches in length.   $135.US.   (sold)  
  CH741.   This is an unusual antique enamelled silver ring from Northern Laos - very charming and very rare.  I have little documentation on these, but if you check page 160 of "a World of Rings" you will see a Mien Yao ring with similar enamelling..  I have enlarged images so that you can have a good look at the workmanship.  This is the first ring that I have had that didn't just have decoration but a word on it - "HONE".  The enamelling is dark yellow and dark blue with only a little remaining.  The ring is a size 7.5.   $185.US.
  CH742.   This is a very nicely shaped antique Jatim bead from Indonesia - NOT a reproduction.  It is just short of 7/8 inch across (22mm) with a fairly consistent pattern winding around it.  You can see its details in the enlargement.   $150.US.    
  CH744.   This is a great silver antique tool, just 5 1/4 inches tall.  It has three distinctive pieces attached by loops so that they swing nicely.   $65.US.
  CH746.   This is a simple and attractive antique silver lock pendant.  It is a nicely cut sheet of silver with an image of branches and blossoms on one side, and good blessings on the other.  There are three bells hanging and two chains longing for something to be added to them.  With a silver wire one could add beads, or with a loop add other pendants or bells.  The chain is 20 inches long.  The pendant from top of the silver to the bottom of the bells is 4 1/4 inches tall.  It is 3 inches wide.   This hangs very nicely and truly the two empty chains don't necessarily need anything added to them.   $145.US.   (sold)  
  CH748.   This came as one strand but because of the cost and the size of the beads I divided it into two.  You can see some like these on page 334 of "A World of Necklaces".  The description is as follows:   "Indonesia, Java - Glass paste beads from archaeological sites (ninth-twelfth centuries)."  In "Collectible Beads" Robert Liu says, in speaking of Indonesia "This large archipelago has not only ancient glass beads that are intriguing as to origins and methods of manufacture, but also heirloom beads of varied ages and origins..."  Strand #1 is 19 1/2 inches long with the largest bead being 3/4 inch in diameter.   $350.US.   Strand #2 is 19 inches long with the largest bead being 3/4 inch in diameter.   $350.US.
  CH749.   This is an amazing necklace from Java, Indonesia.  In the beautifully illustrated book "Eye Beads and Magic Amulets" by Jamey D. Allen he talks of this style of beads known as "jatim" and "pelangi" the originals being made in the ninth to twelfth centuries.  He speculates that "they were made by expatriate Islamic beadmakers, who had immigrated out of Western Asia, and had worked in the "Syrian" tradition but who, when they had transferred the industry, eventually developed a unique idiom among beads."  Robert Liu in "Collectible Beads" illustrates a group on page 90.  This strand is part of an old collection and the beads were bought over time in travels to Indonesia.  The polychromatic strand is long - 32 inches plus the central bead which is 1 1/8 inch long and 1 inch in diameter.  There is a wonderful variety of beads on this strand that are now very difficult to collect.  (the yellow/green bead on the top row, #3 from the central bead is a new imitation I believe).   $900.US.   (sold)
  CH750.   Here is a 24 inch long strand of polychromatic glass beads from Java, Indonesia made during the ninth to twelfth centuries.  These are from an old collection gathered over the years.  The largest beads are a little over 1/2 inch in diameter.  There is a nice variety of designs mostly in the traditional greens and yellows that reflect back on ancient beads made a thousand or more years previously.  History continues across continents...   $440.US. 
  CH752.   These two beautiful strands of red wound glass beads came out of Indonesia.  It is a pinkish red, an unusual colour.  The strands are antique, are 21 inches long and  $105.US/each strand.   (both are sold)
  CH753.   These antique crystal beads came out of Burma near the Naga area.  They are a fascinating shape with drill holes that are easy to see.  I am always curious about the drillings.  Strand #2 also has a transparent vaseline bead and a pinkish stone bead.   $190.US/each strand.   
  CH754.   There are four silver Chinese pendants here, all a little unusual.  #1 is a frog I think - 1 3/4 inches tall with hanging loops at the bottom.  $20.US.   #2 looks like a tortoise shell on one side and a flower on the other.  The pendant is 1 7/8 inches tall.  $20.US.   #3 is a slightly complex piece with a gourd above, two carnelians belonw and a shell shape.  The entire piece is 3 inches tall.  $52.US.   #4 has a bright carnelian and below it there seems to be a wrapped leaf with a flower inside.  $20.US.
  CH756.   This is a lovely and graceful antique spirit lock.  It has large winged arms for suspension.  This is 3 1/3 inches across at the widest and just under 2 1/2 inches tall.  The arms are very nicely hammered so that they become narrower and narrower until they twirl into a finish.   $145.US.
  CH757.   This is an attractive 28 inch long strand of Chinese beads, less than 50 years old.  The pattern is a traditional one of the minorities trade.  The "sunburst" patterns with trailing originated in the Boshan workshop of the Shandong province.   $55.US. 
  CH758.   This is a very complex Chinese decorative piece made from silver.  The top pieces have wires at the back to act as loops so that the piece can be hung against clothing or a head-dress.  They are hammered in delicate designs.  From them are chains with leave shaped stamped pieces.  Since they are stamped, the backs are the reverse of the fronts.  The chain style is traditional and there are two bells at the bottom.  It jingles quietly as one walks.  From the top of the looped piece to the bottom of the bells & pendants each piece measures 12 inches in height.  The chain between the two pieces is 8 1/4 inches long.  This is an excellent collectors piece.  $225.US.
  CH759.   This group of good silver pieces are Chinese ornaments that were used on clothing, hats, shoes, etc.  They have various meanings of health, strength, protection, etc.  The fish of pair #1 are 1 1/4 inches across.  $55.US/pair.   The pair of lions in #2 are 1 1/5 inches across.  $60.US.   The pair of foo dogs in #3 are 1 3/8 inches across and have loops attached.  $60.US.   The lion in #4 is 1 5/8 inches across.  $35.US.   The lion in #5 is a little over 1 1/4 inches across.  $30.US.   The lion in #6 is 1 3/4 inches across with a loop attached.  $35.US.   The caterpillar on the leaf of #7 is 2 1/2 inches long.  $40.US.   The lion in #8 is just under 1 1/4 inches across.  $30.US.   #1, #2, #4, #7 & #8 are sold, the rest are available)
  CH760.   There is a variety of different silver pieces here from China.  The baby in #1 is 3 dimensional so he has a front and a back.  He is 1 1/2 inches tall, with chain the dangle is 3 1/4 inches long.   #2 is a very 3-dimensional frog with two hanging loops.  The texture on it is quite wonderful.  The piece is 1 3/4 inches wide.  $45.US.   #3 is a 3-dimensional pair of lotus blossoms 1 inch across.  $25.US.   #4 is a large lotus blossom pendant the same on both sides.  It has pieces inside to make it into a noisy bell.  $35.US.   #5 is a 3-dimensional boy.  The piece with chain is 2 3/4 inches long.   #6 is a pair of boys (twins) each one is 1 inch tall.  $40.US/pair.   #7 is a pair of lion hooks.  They are 1 3/8 inches across.  $60.US/pair.   (#2, #3 & #4 are sold)
  CH761.   This is a very attractive silver tool kit which most definitely could use some cleaning.  The silver is quite tarnished.  The entire piece is 16 1/2 inches long and the butterfly at the top is 2 1/8 inches across.  This piece is well over 100 years old and has some excellent work on it.  The flat tools are covered with engraving, and the tools at the bottom have a spiral wrap of silver around the handle part.  The scoop of the middle tool is covered with engraving.  This is a very special piece.   $275.US.
  CH763.   Here is a pretty little antique silver butterfly clasp.  The little round button slips into a small loop.  It measures 1 3/4 inches across.  $34.US.
  CH764.   This is a single silver Laotian earring made for wearing by the Hmong as well.  This comes from the area known as the "Golden Triangle".  Old ones like this have a huge amount of charm in their labour intensive work - the new ones don't come close.  This is 1 3/8 inches across at the widest.  You can see similar ones on page 232 of "A World of Earrings".    $60.US.
  CH768.   Here is a range of colours of very beautiful silk shawls hand woven in Thailand.  Old traditions are being used in a women's cooperative to create a contemporary styled shawl that goes well with modern clothing.  The silks are grown locally and the dye methods are experimented with to try new ideas.  I fell immediately in love with these and have no idea which colour combination I like the best.  The shawls average 70 by 16 1/2 inches.   $35.US/each
  CH769.   This shawl is from the Ban Napho Weaving Group, a women's co-op in Thailand.  The silk is woven by hand.  The work is traditional but the styling is contemporary and absolutely breath-taking.  The colours in the enlargment are closest to the real colours of the shawl.  It is 70 by 15 1/2 inches.   $75.US.   sold
  CH770.   This shawl is from the Ban Napho Weaving Group, a women's co-op in Thailand.  The silk is woven by hand.  The work is traditional but the styling is contemporary and absolutely breath-taking.  The colours in the enlargment are closest to the real colours of the shawl - the blue is very rich in colour contrasting with the lime green panels        AM .  It is 70 by 15 1/2 inches.  $78.US.    sold
  CH771.   These three bells came out of Mongolia.  They all have ringers in them, and they all are noisy.  The first two are quite rare, and both are accentuated with antique carnelian beads.   Bell #1 is 3 3/8 inches long from top of "S" hook to bottom of bell.  The bell itself is 1 3/8 inches tall and slightly over an inch in diameter.  $68.US.   Bell #2 is 3 1/8 inches tall from top of loop to bottom of bell.  The bell itself is 1 7/8 inches tall and a little over 1 1/8 inch in diameter.   $80.US.   Bell #3 is much more delicate and like the bells that come out of China.  With the chain the piece is 6 inches tall.  The bell itself is 1 inch tall.   $30.US.   (#1 & #3 are sold)
  CH772.   These earrings are made of decorative buttons or pendants from China.  Some have enamelling on them, and some are simply silver, and all are 100+ years old.  Earrings #1 are shaped like flower buds and their bottoms still have some enamelled blue on them.  1 1/8 inches tall.  $35.US.   Earrings #2 look like lotus buds, they have leaves with 5 small holes around the top, point nicely at the bottom and have writing on them.  $35.US.   Earrings #3 have very perfect silver buds with a lot of detail.  It will show better once they have been polished a little.  $40.US.   Earrings #4 are very detailed and come in two parts joined together.  The lower part is an enamelled blue lotus bud and the top part is either leaves or a moth like creature.  1 15/16 inches tall.   $65.US.   Earrings #5 are flower/lotus buds enamelled in two shades of blue.  Some areas are a little blackened.  1 5/16 inches tall.  $50.US.   The pendant is made the same way as earrings #3.  The top part can be facing this way or upside down.  It is just under 1 inch tall and has a large hidden loop behind which can hold a coin or a chain.  $45.US.   (#4 is sold)
  CH773.   Burmese antique "flower money" - this currency was made by pouring molten silver onto a flat surface so you can see the bubbles and movement of the silver on the bottom and the shapes on the surface that are made as the surface cools and the inner part of the silver is still molten hot - The smaller one #1 is slightly over 2 3/8 inches across with two stringing holes.  The back has orange colouring which looks like something has glazed onto the surface of the silver.  $148.US.    The larger one #2 is 2 1/2 inches across and two stringing holes so that it makes a great pendant.   $158.US.   (both sold)
  CH774.   These are great antique glass beads made in China but bought in Nagaland where they have been worn for many years.  There are 7 strands bound together with larger beads at front and back - the strands each measure about 30 inches around.  That is a lot of beads, made into a wearable necklace.  The individual beads are about 3/16 inch in diameter.   The necklace is  $155.US.
  CH776.   The Chinese always do lovely work with silver.  Bracelets like this require a lot of hammering.  Annealing and hammering, many times over.  The bracelet has very typical patterns on it, and small pieces of metal inside for a very light, delicate, rattling noise when moving.  The inside of the bracelet is 2 1/2 by 1 7/8 inches across, made for a wrist that is not smaller than 7 inches around.  The opening is 1 5/16 inches open.   $165.US.
  CH777.   Here is a lovely set of silver bells from China.  They are nicely hammered and match up beautifully and interestingly three slightly different sizes.  They make quite a strong clunk when they are moved or shaken.  The largest bell is 1 1/8 inches tall including hanging loop.   $75.US/for all three   (sold)
  CH778.   These two Chinese silver buttons or cuff links are antique, beautifully made, heavy and attractive.  They are two different sizes but I like the contrast and the similarites between the two.  The smaller square is just over 7/8 inches across with the figures of two men hammered into it.  The larger one is 1 1/16 inch across and has two slightly different looking men on it.  All of the handwork is very well done.  The pieces close with a bell on a short chain.  These are very unusual and could be used in many different ways.   $135.US/for the pair
  CH779.   I wish that I could take better photographs of these ancient banded agate beads as they are much more attractive than they appear in this photo.  I do like it that customers often say "the beads were even better than I thought", but would truly be happier if they really could be seen as beautiful as they are.  These beads came from a private collection in Thailand, and were acquired in Cambodia many years ago.  I believe that these are known as Dong Son beads from a culture crossing the border between Cambodia and Vietnam.  The beads were most likely originally carved in India BC700 to 200AD and traded across the continent.   #1 is coloured in thirds with the two outside sections almost transparent so that you can easily see the drilling holes.  The central part is creamy with scribbles of yellow (not quite as bright as the photo shows but more subtle).  It reminds me of the patterning of a chung dzi.  The bead is 1 5/8 inches long and 3/8 inch in diameter.  $280.US.    #2  This bead is a pale tobacco colour with two white stripes circling around it.  The patterning is full of grace.  The bead is slightly over 1 5/8 inches long and 3/8 inches in diameter.  $170.US.   #3 is drastically different in colour from one half to the other, a transuscent caramel to one side (with a clear, colourless cap at the top) of the white line and dark brown/almost black on the other.   $220.US.   #4 is divided by a white stripe as well.  One side is a dark brown and the other a bright caramel shifting into an orangey tone at the end of the bead.  Again, it has a bit of the look of a chung dzi with that distinctive stripe circling it.  The bead is 1 11/16 inches long and a little under 1/2 inch in diameter.  $250.US.   #5 is a shorter squater bead measuring just under 1 3/8 inches in length and 5/8 inch in diameter.  The bead is decorated with swirls of a warm cream colour and white.  It has quite a few ancient chips (softened ones).  It must have been worn a lot in years gone by.  When you hold the bead up to the light you can easily see the stringing hole across it.  $170.US.
  CH780.    This group of ancient banded agates also came from the Thai collection mentioned above.  They were bought in Cambodia and I believe these are known as Don Son beads from a culture that existed in both Vietnam and Cambodia.  The beads were most likely carved in India BC700 to 200AD and traced across the continent.  Again, they are more attractive and dramatic in real life than in this photo.  Stone was looked at very carefully so that the carver could make the most advantage of the colouring.  Stripes around the beads were among the most valuable.  This group of beads is all carved so that the middle part is thicker than the ends so that they have a graceful curve to them.    #1 is a small but beautiful bead, a deep rich brown/black with a white ring around it.  If you hold the bead against the light a caramel stripe appears next to the white.  The bead is 1 1/8 inches long and 3/8 inch at the widest.  $110.US.   #2 is a magnificent bead, 2 5/8 inches long with the widest diameter being 3/8 inch and the diameter at the ends of the bead being 1/4 inch.  The stripe divides the bead in two with one side being an opaque dark brown/black and the other side being a dark caramel.  When you hold the bead to the light a section of that brightens up and you can easily see the drilling hole through it.  $440.US.   #3 doesn't look quite as old as the others.  I suspect it is hundreds of years old, not over a thousand.  It is very attractive though with caramel being the most popular colour in it.  The fine lines of swirls of colours of the stone are very attractive.  The bead is 1 3/4 inches long and the widest part is slightly over 3/8 inch across.  $85.US.   #4 is stripe after stripe after stripe around and around.  At one side the colours are dark brown and cream, and at the other end the colours are various shades of caramel with much of it transparent/transluscent so that you can see where the drill holes from each side meet each other.  The double white line wiggles around the bead.  This bead is slightly under 1 1/2 inches long and slightly over 3/8 inch thick at the middle.   $190.US.    (#2 is sold)
  CH781.   This is an interesting bunch of carnelian and quartz beads from China - most of which I think, were made to be buttons carved so that the round part is what is pushed through the buttonhole and the small section with the hole through it fastens the buttoms to the garment.  14 of these beads were made like that leaving 3 crystal beads as simply round.  The longest of these beads is 3/4 inch from one end to the other.  These are very unusual and sold as a group.   $330.US.
  CH782.   These five jadeite beads from China are carved in a similar way (though flatter) than the ones above.  They are newer too - I am sure they are less than 50 years old, but very attractive.  The longest bead is 3/4 inch long.   $85.US.   
  CH783.   This is a wonderful and detailed antique ring as you can see by the attached enlarged image.  The one inch long cinnebar floral carving has a modern looking sensibility surrounded by complex details in the silver.  The ring was once gilded with gold and a little remains on the inside panel behind the cabochon.  The rest just gleams with sterling grade silver.  The ring is nicely worn so that the design has smoothed in places.  As many traditional Chinese rings are, the back was originally changeable in size.  I wouldn't try changing it too much now though, as antique silver becomes less flexible.   The size is 6.5 but would also fit 7.   $85.US.   (sold)
  CH565.   Here is a very unusual Chinese silver necklace.  The necklace is 26 inches long, and the pendant part featuring a little house is 3 1/2 inches long.  The necklace has old coral and turquoise on it as well as a coral coloured glass bead at the bottom.  This dates from the 1800s.  The chain is attached by string to the beaded part - which is very typical.  The unusual part of this is the house or temple.  This is 1 3/8 inches tall and features different characters on each side.  I would suppose that these are holy men.  One side has a roof which seems to have a liftable part to it.  It is stuck shut at the moment though and I don't want to try to force it open.  One would have to figure out by what method it was meant to open and then work very carefully.  As it is now it cannot currently be opened.  I have not cleaned this piece at all either - the new owner can have that job.  I imagine that it has been sitting for quite a long time without being worn and is ready for a new life.  This is a memorable piece and would be gorgeous gleaming with the light of silver.   $445.US.    ON SALE   $380.US.   (sold)
   CH568.   Here are two Chinese immortals which were first sewn onto hats.  The hats were generally worn by children (boys wore them between infancy and their fifth year) and in some areas of minorities, by woman.  There are eight immortals, each representing something different.  The one on the left is holding a lotus blossom (the patron saint of a housewife), and the one on the right is a Buddha.  They are both sitting on wooden stands carved to fit.  They can slip out of the stands easily so if you wanted to keep them displayed like that, it might be easy to use a little bit of something sticky like plastecine to keep them in place.  The first one is just over 1 3/4 inches tall, the second one is 1 1/2 inches tall.  They are sold together for $75.US.
   CH570.   This is a very attractive sterling silver ring from the Philipines - it says on the coin "twenty centavos Filipinas" and has a portrait of a standing woman with a hammer laying against an anvil, with a smoking mountain in the background.  The other side is difficult to read, but it looks like the coin was minted in 1944.  The back is gracefully made.  This is a size 7.   $45.US.
   CH572.   This silver bracelet for a young girl, or someone with a very very small hand.  It measures slightly over 1 3/4 inches in diameter in the inside.  The wearer's hand has to be able to slip in as the bracelet has been soldered so that it will not open and close.  It is put on like a bangle.   -  $35.US.  
   CH581.   Here is a group of Chinese rings marked "silver".  The last three have been gilded.  These rings all came from a now-closed store and were in old stock from the 1950s or 1960s.  The first two are brightly enamelled with the same scene - 3 people acting something out.  They were most likely bought at a Chinese opera as a souvenir of a piece.  The rings are all adjustable so the size can be changed a little in either direction.  I wouldn't try to make a big change though, as the shape of the front might be damaged.   Ring #1 is about 8 1/2.   $25.US.   Ring #2 is about 8 1/2.   $25.US.   Ring #3 with 3 enamelled 3-D frogs sitting on it is about a 7.   $45.US.   (fish ring is sold)   Ring #4 has a floral carving of cinnebar on it, and a delicate ring of finely wound wired and is a size 7 1/2.   (#4 is sold)  $45.US.  Ring #5 has a carving of a woman cut from either bone or ivory.  I can't tell from the look of it.  It also has a ring made of finely and delicately wound wires.   Size 9.   $45.US.   (#5 is sold)
   CH584.    This pair of wound silver bracelets is from the Golden Triangle - made by the Shan but worn by other people such as the Lahu and the Akha of the border region between Myanmar and Thailand.  The silver is not sterling but a few notches below..  You can get some more shine out of it though.  I love the way these feel and fit - they can be manipulated just a little to change the fit - not too much, but a bit...  Right now the insides measure 1 7/8 by 1 5/8 across.  The outside measures 3 3/4 by 3 1/8 across - these are substantial but light weight pieces.  My wrists are 6 inches around and they fit perfection.   $255.US/pair     ON SALE   $200.US.
   CH593.   These three strands are almost convincing imitations of the typical trade beads above.  These are made of plastic though, and weigh very little.  The center beads are Chinese copies of Venetians.  I must say, they are attractive anyway.  $60/all 3 strands.
   CH595.   Here are three strands of newish carnelian beads bought in the Myanmar area.  Strand #1 has 19 inches of beads.   $22.US.   Strand #2 has 17 inches of beads   $22.US.   Strand #3 has 20 inches of beads   $22.US.   (#3 is sold)
   CH598.   This chopper was bought in Burma.  It does not have a sharpened blade to it - the width of the curved piece is the same all along it, so it is not made for cutting, but perhaps for chopping.  It is built in the same way that an ulu (for Inuit people) is in the north.  The handle is brass and the "blade" is white metal (steel?).  The handle is 3 1/8 inches long and 3/4 inch in diameter.  The distance from the top of the handle to the bottom of the blade is 3 3/4 inches long.  Less than 50 yrs old.   $95.US.
   CH599.   This is a very beautiful antique (over 100 yrs old) tool bought in China.  It is made of brass and copper, and I can't tell what other metal.  The tool is 6 3/4 inches long and made in the same way that a decorative knife is made.  It is beautifully decorated with decorative openings through it.  The smaller openings have curves of brass decorating them.  The large opening is the rectangular one which is open on all four sides.  There is a little ball inside (I can't tell what it is made of) which moves around when you move the tool.  The working part of the tool is a curved scoop.  I was told that this is for opium but I don't know if that is true.  What I do know is that it is old, beautiful, and very nice to hold onto and look at.   $175.US.
   CH601.   This wrapped bracelet could be carefully changed in size.  I would ask someone experienced to do it though to avoid breaking the silver.  It is a hammered piece (you can see the constant hammer marks on the inside) that has been decorated by delicate patterns showing branches and leaves.  This is quite worn from years of wear.  The  bracelet is 2 1/2 by 2 1/8 across on the inside.  - $65.US.
   CH606.   This is quite an impressive pair of earrings, not often seen.  These come from the Chinese/Tibetan border, are made of good silver and beads made of small branches of coral.  A very interesting thing about these earrings is that some of the chains with beads and dangles hang from the lotus blossom image which one sees at the front, and the rest of the chains with beads and dangles hang from a removable piece which slips over the hanging loop.  You can see what it looks like when I slipped it off.
I think that these earrings have changed a little over time and that the coral beads were not always there.  The wire fastening them on is skinnier than the other wire, and worked a little differently.  To keep old items wearable, changes sometimes have to be made over the years.  If you plan on wearing these you need only slightly extended ear holes, but you need to be able to carry some weight as each earring weighs about 41.6 grams.  These are very collectible, and very exotic to wear.  With both pieces together they measure 7 1/2 inches from top to bottom.  With the disc and chains removed, it measures 6 inches in length.  $355.US
   CH607.   If you like the colour of jade, this is a great piece.  I don't know if the colour has been altered at all, but it is an old piece, probably around a century old.  The jade slide is 3 1/2 inches wide and just under 1 3/4 inches tall.  It has a simple floral design traced into each side. It is quite difficult to see as it is a shallow pattern.  There is also a thin slice cut into the piece between the two hanging holes.  It is about the thickness of an envelope and adds a very nice touch to the pendant.  The jade has light scratches on it from long wear.  They are only evident when you look carefully.  The hanging hooks extend from two coins which are not sterling grade.  The old chain though, is sterling and 18 inches long.   $275.US.    ON SALE  $200.US.
   CH510.   This is a wondrous pipe from Japan.  I haven't had one before and was fascinated by this one.  The 8 inch long body is made of brass and silver.  The brass is hammered all over leaving interesting patterns laid into it.  Hammer marks, marks that look like grass growing, and little circles making me thing of water passing by.  In shaped silver is a tiger looking as if he is in a fighting mood, and behind him is a man wearing a kimono ready to challenge him.  It is very beautiful.  Between the two metal sections of the pipe is "wood" that looks like bamboo.  The metal pieces (be careful please) can be gently pulled off the bamboo so that it can be replaced when necessary.  This is a true collector's piece from an old collection of Asian items.  I am sure that it can be used, or can simply sit as a thing of beauty.   $575.US.    ON SALE    $500.US.
   CH515.   I was captivated by the gracefulness and traditional feeling of these brand new hangings...  The pendant portions average about 1 3/4 to 3 1/2 inches in height with the pieces being about 12 inches long from top of hanging loop to bottom of fringes.  These are all symbolically important, each bringing good wishes and safety in their own way.   $34.US/each    (#1, #2, #3 & #4 are sold)
   CH517.   Here are some slightly rough, new Japanese Tsubas (hand guards of swords).  These help to balance the weight of the swords as well as guard the bearer's hand from their opponent as well as from the sharpness of their own sword.  These are cast of iron in a variety of shapes and decorations.  Because they are so interesting in their design, they can be used as curious (and heavy) pendants.  The antique ones are very expensive as they are collected widely.  The new ones don't have the smoothness and gleam of the old, but are still interesting.  #3 is $55. the rest are $45.US. each.
   CH518.   These two 19th century Chinese hair pins are both enamelled, and very charming.  #1 is an image of a butterfly similar to what was done with feathered colouring, but done in enamel instead and having two tiny dangles.  It is 2 7/8 inches long and made of silver.  One little bit of enamel is missing below the left wing but it is very attractive and would look great as a hat pin or threaded into a sweater.  $60.US.   #2 has a sense of humour to it.  This is 4 3/4 inches tall and 3 3/4 inches wide.  Above the silver pin is an enamelled owl standing calmly.  Swimming to his sides are two fancy fish with dangles of beads hanging from their mouths.  It is quite an unusual piece which again, would be great pinned onto a hat or onto clothing.   $120.US.   (#1 is available)
   CH519.   I don't know what this silver tie clip is yet.  It is Japanese I believe, and portrays a man with wings tied to him by ropes.  He is flying over a bridge with a temple in the background.  There is writing on the back and the year 1985.  I would suppose that something significant happened then - perhaps some sort of festival, and that this is a memory of it.   The new owner will have research to do.  $28.US.   
   CH536.   These Chinese pieces are hammered silver, some for use as pendants and some for sewing onto fabric or laying against a piece of jewellery or whatever you could imagine.  They have really increased in price over the last few years, but I find them delightful and becoming more rare, and I think that very nice pieces of jewellery could be made with them as centerpieces.  #1 (1 7/8 inches tall) - $65.US.,    #2 - $65.US.,   #3 - $65.US.,   #4 - $70.US.,   #5 - $55.US.,   #6 - $50.US.,   #7 - $50.US.,   #8 - $70.US.,   #9 - $80.US.,   #10 - $55.US. (#3, #5, #7 & #9 are available)
   CH537.   These 19th century silver Chinese rings were made as souvenirs from the opera.  They are all carefully resizeable to a degree - generally a size or so in either direction.  The images on them referred to the specific operas that were attended when they were for sale.  They are true pieces of the history of creativity.  Ring #1 has a number of characters engraved onto it and is a size 10 and $185.US.   Ring #2 has a creature hammered into it which I think might be shishi the Chinese lion, it is a size 6 1/2 and $195.US.   Ring #3 also has a creature on it which might also be shishi, I am not sure  - - but these rings really do look great and sit great - I wear mine on my middle fingers and get zillions of compliments - - this one is a size 10 and $195.US.  See page 95 of "Four Centuries of Silver".   (#1 is sold)
   CH541.   Here is a pair of Chinese 19th century enamelled earrings - well they were not made as a pair but have wound up becoming one.  The two earrings are of the same style and manufacture, but have different designs decorating them.  One pair is slightly larger than the other too and the hooks go in the same directions.  They are very unusual, rare, and have an eclectic look to them.  The larger one is 2 1/2 inches across, and the smaller one is 2 3/8 inches across...  $290.US/pair
   CH545.   Northern Laos cloisonne enamelled silver bracelets - very charming and very rare.  I have little documentation on these, but if you check page 160 of "a World of Rings" you will see a Mien Yao ring with similar enamelling.  They have sat in a personal collection for many years.  Much of the enamelling is worn off, but you can still see the hints of the colours leaving a great and interesting texture.  Bracelet #1 is 2 1/4 inches by 1 5/8 inches on the inside with a 1 inch wide opening and bracelet #2 is 2 3/8 inches by 1 3/4 inches on the inside with a 1 5/16 inch wide opening.     $325.US/each bracelet
   CH546.   This is a new pair of bracelets, but made of good silver, graceful and attractive.  The bracelets measure 2 3/4 by 1 3/4 on the inside so will fit a medium to large sized wrist.  The opening is 1 1/8 inches wide.   The pair weighs 106 grams.   $245.US.
   CH548.   This is a 32 inch long strand of Peking glass "crumb" beads.  There is a great flourish of colour on them.  - $325.US.   (sold)
   CH549.   Here are two very attractive Peking glass beads.  strand #1 is about 15 inches long - it needs just a little more in the way of spacers or a few beads at the back to make a necklace.  The strand has a great variety of colours within it, and some collectible old beads from China - $175.US.   Strand #2 is 34 inches long with quite a few unusual dark reddish amber coloured glass beads on it.  Mixed with the other beads, there is a sense of age and richness.    - $300.US.    (#1 is available, #2 is sold)
   CH550.   There are two silver Chinese needle containers here, with Peking glass beads attached to them. - #1 is 3 1/8 inches long.  The bottom should slide out to hold the needles, but it seems to be sealed shut so is now simply a pendant. - $135.US.   #2 is 3 inches long and works well with the insides slipping out easily. - $135.US.
   CH552.   These two strands of beads came from Borneo where they are highly valued.  They were made hundreds of years ago and brought from China through the trade routes.   - Strand #1 is 19 1/2 inches long and beautiful blues and greens which would be great even strung just as they are.  - $375.US.   Strand #2 is just over 20 inches long with fat richly coloured beads with a nice old mustard yellow central bead at the bottom.  - $440.US.   (#1 is available,  #2 is sold)
   CH555.   This 19th century Chinese silver disc probably slipped onto an earring once upon a time.  Now it is looking for a new purpose.  This is very thin but strong, and lightly engraved.  It is 2 1/8 inches across and has a nice rimmed hole in the middle.  This could hang very nicely as a pendant.  - $100.US.
   CH557.  This is an interesting collection of silver coins.  They are of the French republic, but on the side of the coin where it says "10 CENT", it also says "INDO-CHINE FRANCAISE".  The 29 coins date between 1922 and 1937 and measure 3/4 inch across.  The cord is tied in the back so you can knot it around your neck and wear it as is.   $300.US.
   CH337.   When dancing in Timor both men and women will hold onto a bell in their fingers with the decorations sitting above the hand.  This silver bell is a beautiful good silver decorated example.  This one is old and nicely worn, and a very special item for a serious collection.  Of course if you have a small and delicate wrist this could be worn as a bracelet.  It does make a strong bell sound when shaken.  The inside of the opening is 2 1/8 inch across and 1 3/8 inches at its widest in the opposite direction.  One would need a narrow wrist to wear it.  It just looks so gorgeous though...   $350.US.
   CH345.  If you can't identify this silver container and tools from the Belu people of Timor, I will give you a clue.  It has to do with Betel nuts.  Hmmn.
Well, it is a container for powdered lime made from ground up limestone, a bit of which still exists inside the container and is used while chewing the nuts.  The betel nuts are chewed with lime and betel leaf producing a rather mild narcotic affect.  Unhappily the lime wears away at the teeth and causes the gums to change colour to a deep red.  Usually I see these containers made of natural materials, and it is wonderful to see one fashioned out of silver.  This would look great hanging from a very long and chunky chain perhaps with a bead or tow attached.  There are two tools, the longest being 4 1/2 inches in length.  The container itself is 3 3/4 inches long and 1 1/4 inch in diameter.  It is beautifully and delicately decorated with floral designs.  The cap of the container sits nicely and tightly and simply pulls off to open.  This is close to 100 years old and quite a collector's piece.  $385.US.
   CH346.  Here is an amazing pair of silver boxes bought in northeast Laos near Xam Nua.  I hadn't seen anything quite like this before but found a similar box and chain illustrated on page 133 of "Jewelry of Southeast Asia."  The hammered and engraved boxes have insides that slide open nicely, and stay shut securely.  The big fat rings they are attached to are fastened to double sided connectors which are fastened to a chain.  The chain is meant to connect the piece to the waistline of a woman.  In the book it says that this "...was suspended on a chain at the waist by Vietnamese women, early 20th century.  ...the silver boxes are for tobacco, lime and cosmetics decorated with repousse and engraving."   "The dragon is the most common motif on the heart-shaped container."  The larger box is 2 inches across and 1 1/8 inch tall.  The smaller box is 1 7/8 inch across and 1 inch tall and they are both decorated on all sides.  When hanging, they fall for 9 1/2 inches.     $420.US.
   CH355.   This is a very good silver tool kit coming from Laos.  This hangs from an 8 1/2 inch length of doubled chain (17 inches total) to attach the kit to a belt.  Adding a clasp could easily turn this into a necklace.  The chains travel down to a highly decorated disc - the same on both sides.  From the disc hang tools as well as a good sized fish (for luck) and from the fish hang more items - two bells and a smaller decorated disc.  The smaller disc holds even more tools.  They look great showing their hammer marks and their bits of decorations.  The entire piece measures 20 inches long, and even looks wonderful when sitting laid out or hung on the wall in a collection.  This dates from the turn of the century.  $545.US.    ON SALE   $480.US.    
  CH362.   Here are two pectoral discs from Timor dating to the the early 1900s.  They are worn by men/hunters under some circumstances, and by women under others.  They are important spiritual pieces expressing the soul and abilities of the wearer.  According to page 163 of Jewelry of Southeast Asia, "Timorese women sometimes wear the pectoral disks associated with headhunting and the courage of male warriors.  Childbirth is equated with warfare, and like warriors returning from battle, women may wear male ornaments at rituals performed following the birth and the customary period of seclusion."   These are very unusual and very collectible pieces.  The patination and the simplicity of the silver pattern is breath-taking.  An almost identical one is illustrated on the page quoted from above.  The top pectoral is 4 3/8 inches across.  It has a dome shape standing in the middle of it and a stringing hole that has been punched through the silver encircled by hammered dots.  The edges have been hammered so that they curl up a little, just like one might do to the sides of a pizza.  This is highly patinated from age.   $250.US.   The second pectoral is 4 3/4 inches across.  It has a flatter dome in the center, and once had a loop soldered onto it.  Only the remains of that are left and a hole has been punched beneath it.  Under the hole a design has been hammered into the silver.  It looks very mysterious.   $250.US.    (CH362 #1 is sold)
   CH363.  Two silver pendants are illustrated here.  The top one was bought in NW Laos near Xien Kok.  This is a 2 7/8 inch wide pendant hammered with a flower design in the center.  The pendant has a loop soldered onto the top.  Wear has cut through it over time and it has been folded together to create a strong suspension.  This is ready to be strung onto a strand of beads.  $40.US.   The second pendant is an Akha flower shaped piece.  This is 4 1/2 inches across and quite heavy.  It is hammered with a simple design and hammered with lightly domed circles.  This too is ready for wear.  It has two holes at one end and a single hole at the other.  It can be used to suspend something as well...  $95.US.   (#1 is sold)
   CH372.   I have a wonderful tobacco container here, bought many years ago in China - by an antiques furniture dealer.  He kept it in his own collection until now.  When I first looked at it, I thought it was wood, but it is made of bone.  The only bone that I can imagine is from an elephant, so perhaps this is made from the tusk.  The container is stained a darker brown than it appears on the scan and it is beautifully carved with a scene that runs easily all around it -  mountains, water, two houses, and a man carrying something over his shoulder walking across a flat zig zaggy bridge to his home.  There is some writing on one side, and the top is carved as well - ocean and islands and two simple little boats in the distance.  There are some old bumps and scratches but they have been well worn long ago.  The container is 3 1/4 inches tall and the oval top is 3 1/4 by 1 3/4 inches.  The strings holding it together are quite new.  A carved carnelian bead sits on top (diameter 5/8 inch) and a long (1 3/8 inches) porcelain bead sits below.  I think that the container would be happier with a thicker cord running through as this doesn't seem quite in proportion.  The opening inside is 2 1/8 by 1 1/8 inches across in a rectangular shape which contrasts nicely with the oval.  There is only a distant smell of tobacco.  This is a very special piece, quite certainly over 100 years old (except for the beads and string).  $440.US.  
   CH311.   These are some amazing banded agates - probably of Indian or Middle Eastern origin but found in the Suphan Buri area of Thailand.  The burial period dates from 1000 to 500BC.  The beads are more attractive than they appear on the scan - glossier, and more subtle in look, as well as more intriguing to examine....    #1 is about half of an original bead - very nice but one end is original and smooth and the other end is sharply cut.  It has a small swoop of stripes on it.  A little over 5/8 inch long.  $35.US.   #2 is 3/4 inch long and nicely cut at each end.  It has a lovely swirl of white running through it.  $65.US.   #3 is 1 1/4 inches long and quite lovely.  It has beautiful colours and some transluscency at each end.  It has one flattish old worn chip on it.  $175.US.   #4 is beautiful as well with rich and elaborate patterns.  It is a little over 1 1/8 inch long.  $165.US.  #5 has some very fine old chipping on it that has been worn nicely - very small.  It is 1 3/16 inches long and elaborately decorated in a variety of colours.  $165.US.    #6 is quite fat (over 1/2 inch in diameter) and over 1 1/4 inch long.  It is a chunky fellow that has an old worn chip at one end.  It is still very attractive and the chip is well worn.  $165.US.    (#1, #2 & #6 are available)
   CH314.  $45.US/each strand.   CH314 to CH317 are strands from a Chin necklace.  The strands are tied together at the back, then beads are slipped over the strands, and the pieces are totally tied together.  This was in poor condition so I spent a few hours unknotting and unknotting and unknotting, to get this selection of strands.  There are interesting beads among them including lots of carnelian, old Chinese glass, some Venetian made beads, and a few cornaline d'aleppo.  The two final strands each have a marble bead on them - very collectible, and most likely made in Germany.  The Chin, who wore these necklaces would collect beads, and redo the strands with new additions.  I think that the last time this was restrung was when the brass bells were added as they are quite new.    (#2, #4 & #5 are available)
   CH315.  $45.US/each strand.   (#5 is available)
   CH316.   $55.US/each strand.
   CH331.   Beautiful bone carving from Japan with oval hollow opening going through it.  4 inches tall.  $125.US.
   CH273.   These two Neolithic stone discs from China are pretty amazing.  They certainly show their age.  The dark stone (#1) has rough wear around its edges, and an old worn surface chip that you can see on the scan.  It measures slightly over 2 1/4 inches across and 1/4 inch thick.  It would make a great pendant.  The second Neolithic disc is made of an old whiteish stone that is 2 1/2 inches across and 1/4 inch thick.  These are rare pieces.  $75.US/each. (#1 is sold)  
   CH297.   This is a strand of bronze age Ban Chiang stone beads which were unearthed in Lopburi, Thailand and date to some time between 2000 and 4000 years of age.  They don't really fit together like an average necklace as some have flat ends and others have slanted ends, but somehow they look great strung together anyway.  I didn't want to separate the bunch and sell them individually as they were dug from the same place.  The bottom fat bead is 2 1/8 inches long at the widest part, and 1 5/8 inches across at the narrowest.  These are typical slanted ends.  The beads are a variety of types of stones, most with massive holes going through them.  The entire strand spans 16 1/2 inches.  It is really great if you like weight and substance and age.  $800.US.
   CH243.   I received these beads from a very reputable Bangkok dealer.  They come from Eastern Thailand and are dated from the early bronze age 4000-2500 BC.  I have not dealt enough with shell to have a good sense of their history, but these are definitely extremely old beads with some remnants from burial still sitting on them.  The beads are sturdy and ready to be put in a wearable arrangement - they are currently just wound onto fishing line like many old beads are.  There are 30 inches of beads with the widest being about 3/8 inch across.  $145.US.
   CH245.   Another treasure is this child's jacket.  It was bought in Northern Laos but originated from the Lahu tribes in Burma - not that far away.  The jacket has a beautiful closure on it - you can see similar ones on page 37 of "Peoples of the Golden Triangle".  One side of the jacket has the large disc attached to it, and the other has the button attached which slips into a hole in the center to make the flower.  The jacket has been embroiderd, and has thin panels of multi-coloured fabrics sewn onto it.  There are small raised silver discs gouing all around the jacket as well as around the sleeves.  There are coins and shells attached to the front.  This would look beautiful hanging on the wall with arms extended as in the illustration, or it would look delightful on a child.  The chest is 28 inches around, the sleeves are around 10 inches around and the jacket is 14 inches long.  My only wish is that this was an adult size so that I could keep it.....   $245.US.
   CH254.   This is a nice collection of old Chinese carved pieces, dating to be around a hundred or more years old.  They are nicely worn and show a little age from wear.  They were made in the spirit of the ancient ones but are no longer modern copies, not after all of this time.  #1 is 2 1/4 inches tall and about a third of an inch thick.  This seems to be a portrayal of an animal seated on a bell.  The stringing hole is slightly to the back so the piece hangs on a very gentle angle.  $50.US.  #2 is pink with grey streaks running through it - a lovely colour.  It is bell shaped again with some deep lined drawings on it.  It is also about 2 1/4 inches long but almost 3/4 inch thick.  $55.US.  #3 is a fish swirling in the water.  It has a stringing hole that has a slit running across it (just under 1/16 inch thick) so the cord holding it up should be nice and thick and unable to slip through the narrow slit.  It is an energetic looking piece.  2 1/3 inches tall.  $55.US.   (#1 & #2 are sold, #3 is available)
  CH262.   These two strands of beads are made from a bag that I had received, dug up in Western Thailand.  They are quite beautiful - the crystal lovely and clear, and the blue beads delicate and sweet.  Strand #1 is largely made up of clear crystal beads (made of both stone and glass), but contrasts nicely with pale blue and green glass glass. Some of the glass discs are flattened circles.  There are 16 inches of delicacy in all.  $145.US.  Strand #2 has a central crystal stone bead that is quite opaque and measures 7/8 inch in length.  It is surrounded by blue and green glass beads with a total length of 16 inches.  $145.US.  These are both ready to wear with sterling silver clasps.
  CH263.   Strand #1 - $110.US.    Strand #2 - $65.US.   Strand #3 - $125.US. (includes jade)   (#1 & #2 are available)
   CH206.   This is an amazing quite rare old Naga pendant strung onto Chinese "padre" beads (the string has broken so the buyer will have to re-string the piece).  The Warrior's pendant is cast of brass and highly patinated to an almost black colour after many years of exposure to the air.  It is 2 1/2 inches tall and 2 1/2 inches wide and quite thick and heavy.  You can see the sculpting of the back on the scan.  Many modern copies are made of this sort of thing, but this is old and authentic and was worn for years in the head hunting society.  $325.US.
   CH213.   Neither of these bracelets are made of silver.  The material seems to be aluminum, or aluminum with other metal mixed in.  These were made from pots or old containers that had no other use as the community must have been short on high end metals.  Everything was used and nothing wasted.  Bracelet #1 is one of the more unusual pieces that I have seen.  The bracelet has flattened bumps sitting on it and they are inscribed with the numbers "1", "2", "3", and "4".  How unusual!  there is a lot of complex decoration on the piece too - it is quite old and has been very very worn and looks great and dramatic on the wrist.  The inside of the bracelet is 2 1/4 by 1 3/4 inches across  - $175.US.  Bracelet #2 is lighter simpler.  It has round balls soldered around it and stripes between.  It is wonderful that such pieces were made from old cooking pots.  2 1/8 by 1 3/4 inches inside - $85.US.   (#2 is available)
  CH224.   These Indonesian Indo-Pacific disc beads are more unusual than you might first think.  They were found in the Cambodia , Bhutsabong area  and are thought to be from the late Iron age there (about 1500 years old).  These are not made of stone, but of glass.  Typically a much smaller version would be found.  These are thin slices of the red/brown glass that one usually sees in drawn seed beads.  The slices are very thin and delicate and should be strung and worn with some care.  There are a very few beads with chips (less than 10) and I left them on the strand so that they could be pulled off and experimented with.  The strands are about 22 inches long and the average diameter of the beads is about 1/2 inch.  A rare find.  $325.US/each strand.    ON SALE    $250.US.

   CH235.   Here is a set of Miao brass needle cases.  They are made of two parts - an outer case hammered with floral designs, and a part inside where needles can be put into skinny barrels and kept safe.  There is a space to run a string through both cases so that the inside can be pulled in and out when needed.  The upper cases are about 2 3/8 inches long, and the longest lower ones are a little over 2 1/2 inches.  They would make great and curious pendants.  Pendant #7 still has beads attached in the typical way, and costs $45.US.  The other cases cost $40.US each.   (#10 is available, all others are sold)
   CH142.   These earrings all come from Northwest Laos.  They are all graceful and attractive.  Earrings #1 measure just over 1 inch from top to bottom.  The earwire is delicate and would suit any average ear holes.  They extend into an attractive decorated twist. - $50.US.    Earrings #2 are made from silver wire that has been wound into a circle.  The end of it has been hammered and rolled into a small, tight spiral.  Spirals often mean endless life, and hopefulness.  The earrings are 1 1/4 inches tall.  $40.US.   Earrings, #3 and  #4 are flattened spirals, again from Northwest Laos.  Designs have been hammered into the flattened parts.  #3 are 1 1/2 inches tall, #4 are 1 5/8 inches tall - $40.US/each pair.  These are Miao and can be seen on page 180 of "a World of Earrings".   (#4 is available)
   CH145.   These Laotian earrings are shown on page 227 of "a World of Earrings".  You can see why I like the book so much as it is highly illustrated and a real value to any collector.  The author says that the pattern wound into the bottom of the earrings represents a poppy.  Earrings #1 are a well matched pair measuring 1 5/8 inches from top to bottom.  The poppy pattern is made from silver that has been hammered to be very thin and then wound up tightly.  Lovely. - $50.US   Earrings #2 are not well matched.  Perhaps they suit a collector who will keep them on display, or someone who is individualistic enough to not might different sized earrings.  One is 1 1/2 inches tall and the other is slightly over 1 5/8 inches tall. - $45.US. (#2 is available)
   CH123.   This is an ivory netsuke (man reading by a bell) made in China in the mid 20th century as a copy of the original Japanese designs.  This nicely carved and patinated ivory netsuke is signed.  According to the History of Beads, creating Netsuke was creating miniature works of art.  They often reflected social, political or economic circumstances in Japan.  It was often used traditionally as a counterweight to balance the comfortable sitting of an inro.  This piece probably portrays a priest by the temple bell.  It is 2 inches wide and 1 1/2 inches high.  It is beautifully and deeply carved.  There are two wide connecting holes through the bottom of the piece, and parts of the bell could be used as loops as well.   $75.US.
  CH095.   I find this strand of Nagaland beads truly captivating.  At first glance the beads look like rock crystal but they are actually centuries old Chinese made glass.  The glass beads were formed into spheres and then, while hot, pressed on three sides to flatten them.  Tiny air bubbles are collected inside, especially close to the stringing holes.  Lightly spotted black glass  beads act as occasional spacers.  The necklace is finished with turqoise coloured tile beads as well as some "Sherpa coral" (actually glass as well).  The whole necklace is is very charming.  There are 24 inches of beads, with the clear glass ones measuring just under 5/8 inch in diameter.  Very special.    $475.US.    ON SALE   $400.US.
   CH060.   This wide, flat, starry silver pectoral disc dating from the late 19th century (4 1/2 inches in diameter) is from Timor.  According to page 163 of Jewelry of Southeast Asia, "Timorese women sometimes wear the pectoral disks associated with headhunting and the courage of male warriors.  Childbirth is equated with warfare, and like warriors returning from battle, women may wear male ornaments at rituals performed following the birth and the customary period of seclusion."   This is a very unusual and very collectible piece, wearable by someone with a lot of panache....  The piece has a modern stringing of antique beads.  The patination and the simplicity of the silver pattern is breath-taking.  The rarity of this piece is what makes it expensive and at the same time valuable.  An almost identical one is illustrated on the page quoted from above.   $420.US.
   EA360.   This ready-to-wear necklace came from Burma.  The back beads are antique red white-hearts and the warm brown graduated beads leading to the front are pipestone.  The colour has a little more of a warm orange tone that the scan shows, and is very attractive.  At the front of the necklace is a large wound white glass bead that I suspect might be of 18th century Dutch origin.  The accent beads are interesting - there is one pair of black glass beads spotted with white from China, and another similar pair from Venice.  There are also two quite round 1/2 inch carnelian beads which are richer and more attractive than they appear on the scan as well.  28 inches long - $80.US.
  EA340.   The amazing shape of this antique silver bracelet  is typical of Timor (Indonesia) and can be seen on page 299 of "Power and Gold:  Jewelry from Indonesia, Malyasia, and the Philippines".  The description there says "silver 'bracelet' meant to be worn around the clutched fingers of a female dancer who shook the bells in rhythm to her dance.  Possible influence from the old courty styles of jewelry from Java or Bali, whose Indianized kingdoms periodically extended their trade influence into Eastern Indonesia.  Similar bracelets are found in Bali today."   Also see page 211 of "Jewelry of Southeast Asia".  The bracelet is 2 5/8" by 1 1/4" on the inside.  From the top of the bell, to the back of the bracelet is 2 1/2".  This bracelet will dramatically fit a slender wrist, wider than it is deep.  Very distinct.  - $245.US.
  EA341.   These exquisite antique silver Dong or Miao earrings from Guizhou, China are finely, gracefully, kookily and intricately worked.  Highly collectible, you can find them illustrated on page 185 of "A World of Earrings:  Africa, Asia, America".  The earrings are the same size as the bottom one illustrated - about 2 1/4 by 2 1/4 inches.  If you look closely you can see the impressive fine wirework that is one of the main decorative features.  The large earwire has been hammered and lengthened into shape and consequently has an interesting and very attractive texture.  If you have large and strong earholes, these are wearable, otherwise they would look wonderful in a display case.   (44 grams)  $285.US.
  EA342.   The two Akha silver buttons illustrated here, can be seen in "Peoples of the Golden Triangle" worn as closures to a blouse or jacket.  The larger button is 5 1/4 inches across and decorated with hammered designs in a geometrical framework.  Lightly domed, the piece is graceful and beautifully patinated.  It would fasten to a garment by use of two soldered on jumprings behind the button.  There is a loop which would be sewn onto the other side of the garment and a 1 1/4 inch long hook behind the button which would catch onto it  - $185.US.  The smaller button is fastened by a button type closure which creates the central dome of the piece.  Very slightly domed, this is a very tribal looking piece.  2 1/2 inches across.   $95.US.    (#1 is  available, #2 is sold)
  EA343.   You won't find these Neolithic slate scrapers from China (circa 5000BC) illustrated in any jewellery books, but they would nevertheless make sensational pendants.  Used purely as tools, the central hole would have been drilled to fasten on some sort of handle for ease of use.  They may have scraped skin or something relatively soft.  The two have quite different personalities, #1 being more worn and softer around the edges (1 3/4 by 3 1/2 inches) and #2 being more angular (1 3/4 by 3 1/4 inches).  These have lasted eons but should still be handled with some care and definitely not dropped or banged against anything as even stone breaks when thinly sliced.    $95.US/each  (#2 is available)
 

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    .....Ancient beads
    .....Eastern beads and ornaments
    .....India
    .....Africa
    .....African trade beads
    .....North Africa
    .....the Americas including preColumbian
    .....Europe
    .....Modern copies of ancient objects
    .....Odds and ends
.........Mexico - traditional rebozos and market shopping