Ancient Indus Valley Bead Ring

A rare and superb ring featuring an ancient Indus Valley etched carnelian bead, dating to the mid–3rd millennium BC. The deep orange, conical gemstone is decorated with white geometric patterns—created through alkaline bleaching by the Harappans of the Indus Valley civilisation (modern-day Pakistan and India).

These etched beads have been found at major archaeological sites across the Indus region and are now housed in collections like the Louvre and British Museum. They also represent early global trade, having circulated as far as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece.

The bead is set in a later high-karat gold mount, likely made in the 18th or 19th century in imitation of ancient styles. The hollow hoop, circular in cross-section and widening toward the bezel, is smooth and silk-like when worn.

Stamped with French hallmarks and testing as 22K gold.
UK size E / US size 2.25 (very small)
Weight: 10 grams
Carnelian measures: 10mm x 10mm x 5mm

A historically rich and beautifully preserved artefact that bridges ancient and early modern craftsmanship.