Small Saucer Bi-cone Beads from Mali, Silver Alloy (12x9mm) VB_0181

These saucer-shaped beads come from West Africa, specifically from Mali. While the exact metal content of these beads is unknown, they are believed to be made by melting and reusing old silver coins. Oxidation of these beads over time indicates the presence of silver in the metal. Some of the strands are more patinated than others. Please see the last photo for the color variation.  Please indicate your preference at checkout. The beads are hollow and light-weight, and are about 11-13mm diameter x 7-9mm wide hole to hole, although beads being handmade are all slightly different in size. There are approximately 100 beads per strand.   The stringing hole is about 2mm. The beads are handmade, and no two are exactly alike. The size varies plus-minus 2mm.  These beads are old and some may show wear such as nicks, small seam holes, and other minor imperfections. Note: several strands are shown in some photos. This listing is for ONE strand Weights and sizes are approximate. IMPORTANT NOTE. I