Afghan Ring with Buddha Bead

A dark stone, a white swirl, and a gold collar full of scrolls.

This ring from Afghanistan is made of gold and glass and is set with a bead described in the record as a Buddha bead. A high oval bezel holds a dark glass bead decorated with a white curling band that looks like a loose script. Around it, scrolling gold work spreads in openwork shoulders, touched with small pale flecks. The gold has a soft, warm color.

Substantial on the hand. Wear it alone, and let it do the talking.