
Yellow Butterscotch Amber Misbaha Prayer Beads
This item is a strand of prayer beads, specifically identified as a Misbaha or Tasbih, composed of opaque butterscotch yellow resin or amber. The beads are fashioned into a distinctive drum or 'barrel' shape with slightly rounded edges. Each bead measures approximately 10mm to 12mm in length. The material exhibits a characteristic 'butterscotch' hue, ranging from a vibrant egg-yolk yellow to a deeper honey-gold, showing slight translucency at the edges which is typical of natural amber or high-quality early 20th-century phenolics like Bakelite. The beads are strung on a fine white cord, which appears to be modern nylon or silk based on the visible fraying at the connection point. While no maker's mark is visible in the macro shot, the uniformity of the bead shape suggests precise machine turning followed by hand polishing. The condition appears fair to good; there are no major cracks visible, but there is noticeable surface patina and minor minute abrasions consistent with regular tactile use. The slight irregular darkening at the drill holes suggests age-related oxidation, common in amber pieces dating from the mid-20th century. The craftsmanship is high, evidenced by the consistent bead size and the smooth, lustrous finish that facilitates ease of movement through the fingers during meditative practice.
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Estimated Value
$450 - $650
Basic Information
Category
Religious Artifacts / Jewelry
Appraised On
April 28, 2026
Estimated Value
$450 - $650
Item Description
This item is a strand of prayer beads, specifically identified as a Misbaha or Tasbih, composed of opaque butterscotch yellow resin or amber. The beads are fashioned into a distinctive drum or 'barrel' shape with slightly rounded edges. Each bead measures approximately 10mm to 12mm in length. The material exhibits a characteristic 'butterscotch' hue, ranging from a vibrant egg-yolk yellow to a deeper honey-gold, showing slight translucency at the edges which is typical of natural amber or high-quality early 20th-century phenolics like Bakelite. The beads are strung on a fine white cord, which appears to be modern nylon or silk based on the visible fraying at the connection point. While no maker's mark is visible in the macro shot, the uniformity of the bead shape suggests precise machine turning followed by hand polishing. The condition appears fair to good; there are no major cracks visible, but there is noticeable surface patina and minor minute abrasions consistent with regular tactile use. The slight irregular darkening at the drill holes suggests age-related oxidation, common in amber pieces dating from the mid-20th century. The craftsmanship is high, evidenced by the consistent bead size and the smooth, lustrous finish that facilitates ease of movement through the fingers during meditative practice.
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