This deer or stag is one of the nicest specimens I have seen from Afghanistan (or that region). The bead itself is nicely rendered, with attractive cuts that are not commonplace. The animal is not particularly elaborate or detailed, but certainly is rendered fairly well. The bead, as a whole, is beautiful—particularly because of the gorgeous patina.

I looked at this bead over and over, and studied the photographs I took as carefull as possible.

I had to come to the conclusion that when the carving was applieded, the patina was already there. The design actually CUTS THROUGH the external patina of the stone—indicating that the bead is much older than the carving. Otherwise, the patina would be equally over the recesses that make up the image and the cut decorations around the bead.

I'm afraid it is a beautiful fake.

More later today.

Jamey