Ancient Chinese Faience Warring States Bead

Product Description: This item features a small Warring States bead, known for its significant historical value. The bead exhibits signs of weathering, adding to its antique charm.

Specifications:

• Origin: China
• Estimated Production Era: 5th Century BC – 3rd Century BC
• Size: Approximately 14mm in diameter x 10mm in height
• Hole Size: Approximately 3.5mm

Special Notes:

Images may appear slightly different from the actual product due to lighting conditions and photography. This is an antique item and may have imperfections such as scratches, cracks, or chips.

About Chinese Warring States Beads:

Known as "Warring States Beads," these glass beads were crafted during China's Warring States period, roughly 5th to 3rd century BC, before the unification by Qin. The earliest glass discovered in China dates back to the 11th to 8th century BC from Henan Province, Luoyang. However, widespread glass production began during the Warring States period. Early Warring States beads, primarily made of faience (a type of glazed ceramic), were decorated with glass patterns. Later, fully glass beads emerged, featuring designs like "Seven-Star Beads" and "Eye Beads."

While the glass-making techniques and design elements were influenced by Western Asia, particularly Roman glass, the materials used in Chinese glass from this period differ compositionally, highlighting the advanced glass-making skills in ancient China. These beads are not only historically significant but are also beloved by collectors for their diverse designs and rich colors.