Brass Strand of Beads

Grainy, creased little barrels packed in a coil as tight as a clock spring.

This strand of beads is from Africa. It is brass. Brass beads are generally made by casting in small molds or by the lost-wax method, then strung in lengths that are worn or traded. Short, thick beads with rough, sandy texture and a few notched channels running lengthwise. The finish ranges from bright gold to deep tarnished brown. The thread appears white between beads, and the strand winds in many close rings. It is 36 inches long.

Rugged enough to be worn, pretty enough to be forgiven.