I have acquired a piece that is, I believe, an African ceremonial piece composed of copal amber beads with large silver beads on the ends. (See photos, in replies below.)

It weighs 764 grams (including the silver). There are 36 graduated amber beads, measuring from 10.5cm-14cm in circumference.

I have been told by a Nigerian woman that she believes that they are Nigerian, but I do not know anything more about the provenance of the piece.