Persia, Hellenistic period, 4th-1st century BC. The beads were found near Persepolis, the ancient capital of Persia. Each bead pierced to allow for suspension as a pendant. This piece was personally examined by Burmese American archaeologist and gemologist Terence Tan and Hungarian gemologist Dr. József Takács. Their analysis finds that the beads are original, ancient, cut by hand with carving, boring, and grinding. The beautiful color of the stones is original and natural. There are no traces of dye in the recesses of the stones. The stones have been cleaned by hand to a shiny and smooth surface. The holes are ancient, handmade, irregular, and funnel-shaped, executed with a primitive iron needle. A certificate signed by Dr. Zelnik attesting to the above will be handed to the winning bidder upon request. Provenance: Ex-collection of the imperial family of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, last Shah of Iran (a letter of provenance signed by Dr. Zelnik will be handed out to the winning bidder upon request). Ex-Collection of The Zelnik István Southeast Asian Gold Museum, acquired from the above. Institutional art collection in Belgium, acquired from the above. Condition: Very good condition with expected minor traces of age and wear. Weight: 20.0 g Dimensions: Size 2 x 2.5 cm (the largest), Size 2 x 2 cm (the smallest)