VIKING SILVERED BEAD, 800-1050 AD

Compound bead form specific to Vikings, with double balusters flanked by banding. Cast with seams evident both sides. Originally silvered with the silver now restored. Surface textured from burial. 1 1/4” length from an elaborate pectoral/necklace display. Beads were valued more than gold to Vikings and they produced them as well as pillaged and ransomed for them. In the 10th century, they went to Indonesia specifically to procure a ransom of their legendary miniature beads. A fine centerpiece for modern jewelry creation.