Himalayan moss turquoise Buddha bead hand-carved with natural green and ochre mineral inclusions.

Himalayan Turquoise Buddha – Hand-Carved Antique Ritual Bead - Image 2

Click to enlarge

Himalayan Turquoise Buddha – Hand-Carved Antique Ritual Bead

£289.00

This antique moss turquoise bead is hand-carved into a serene Buddha head, showcasing the unique earth-toned matrix characteristic of stone from the Himalayan high plateaus. Collected in Nepal from a local practitioner, the carving displays a gentle smile and closed eyes, symbolizing the internal state of deep meditation. Its weathered texture and substantial weight make it a grounding addition to a personal mala or a standalone protector, carrying the traditional energy of many years of spiritual devotion.

Dimensions	15 × 12 cm

Add £50.00 To Cart And Get Free shipping!

Only 1 left in stock

SKU: V6K3 Category: Turquoise Beads Tag: tibetan turquoise

A steadying presence for the quiet mind

Summary

DETAILS

Material: Natural “Old Stone” Himalayan Turquoise

Size: 28mm x 21mm

Weight: 12 grams

Age: Early 20th Century

Condition: Excellent antique condition; deep waxy patina

Origin: Himalayas (Tibet)

A rare artifact of significant size and deep character, this Buddha head is a silent guardian of the Himalayan spirit, offering a tangible connection to a century of devotion.

THE OBJECT

This is a remarkable find for the seasoned collector—a large-scale Buddha head amulet measuring 28mm x 21mm. Hand-carved in the early 20th century, the piece captures a profound state of meditative equanimity. The facial features are defined by softened, rhythmic lines, while the hair is rendered in traditional tight curls leading to the crown. Its scale allows for a level of sculptural depth and presence that is seldom seen in Himalayan turquoise carvings, which are typically much smaller.

MATERIAL & SIGNIFICANCE

In the Tibetan tradition, turquoise (gYu) is a stone of life and protection. This specific carving is made from what collectors call “old stone”—turquoise that has matured over a century, developing a deep moss-green color and a rich, variegated matrix. This organic patterning is a hallmark of authentic, untreated Himalayan stone. High-density and waxy to the touch, it represents a union of the raw geological power of the mountains and the refined spiritual intent of the practitioner.

SYMBOLISM & CULTURAL ROLE

The Buddha’s image serves as a mirror for the practitioner’s own inherent wisdom. In the high Himalayas, carrying such an image was a form of participation in the Dharma, ensuring that the Buddha’s presence was integrated into every aspect of daily life. The elongated earlobes signify the renunciation of worldly wealth, while the ushnisha represents the expansion of spiritual awareness. It was likely worn as a central protection piece on a mala or kept within a personal Ga’u (amulet box).

AGE, USE & CHARACTER

Dating to the early 1900s, the age patina on this piece is superb. The stone has been naturally burnished to a high waxy luster, a result of generations of skin contact and the thin, dry air of the plateau. The wear on the carving is even and honest, with the high points of the nose and brow showing a gentle “melting” of the original chisel marks. This artifact carries the weight of history, having survived decades of ritual use in one of the world’s most demanding environments.

PRACTICAL & SPIRITUAL USE

Due to its rare size and 12-gram weight, this amulet makes a definitive statement.

Central Mala Piece: Its scale makes it the perfect “Teacher Bead” for a substantial mala set.

Stunning Pendant: It can be worn as a standalone talisman, providing a grounded, weighted presence over the heart.

Altar Presence: A significant addition to a personal shrine, representing the historical lineage of Tibetan devotional art.

Postage