Old butterscotch amber necklace with coral beads

This elegant necklace from the 20th century consists of honey-colored, olive-shaped butterscotch amber beads and four old, deep red coral beads. The necklace is fastened with a metal hook clasp and has a circumference of 50 cm.

Butterscotch amber is a special variety of amber with an opaque, creamy yellow to honey-colored hue that is reminiscent of butterscotch (caramel candy). In contrast to transparent amber, its milky appearance is caused by tiny trapped air bubbles. It is rarer than classic clear amber, especially in uniform shades. In Tibetan culture, butterscotch amber is traditionally used in amulets and jewelry.

Coral has a deep spiritual and cultural significance in traditional Tibetan jewelry. The red precious coral (Corallium rubrum) is particularly prized. In combination with turquoise and silver, coral beads are a characteristic element of Tibetan prayer beads(malas), amulets and ritual jewelry. As Tibet is a landlocked highland, coral was imported from the Mediterranean and the Southeast Asian region via centuries-old trade routes. Nowadays, precious coral is strictly protected, which is why modern Tibetan jewelry is made with old, recycled coral or sustainable alternatives.