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These may be called: micro "Meiji Era beads" … We know they are not Edo Era beads because only functional accessories to clothing were allowed as jewelry substitutes under sumptuary laws enforced in Japan during the Edo Era. This is why we do not see antique Japanese earrings, finger rings, bracelets, necklaces, and beads from Japan prior to 1868. Only kansashi, obidome and ojime beads were made during the Edo Era because they circumvented the law by being utilitarian; thus the rising merchant class wearer could show off his status and taste anyway. When sumptuary laws were lifted, trade with other countries was allowed and glass bead makers could make necklaces for foreign and domestic use. Most of these necklaces went to Great Britain. Highly sought after, today these beads quickly change hands from seller to buyer in the antiques markets of England. A couple of weeks ago, I bought this one from a dealer about sixty miles outside of London. I feel fortunate to have the whole necklace intact. Because one strand singly would look weak as a fashion piece. However, individually, each bead looks very nice under a microscope. The Japanese often prioritize precision. All rights reserved by Bead Collector Network and its users |
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