Ancient Clay Spindle factory Whorl Beads Leather Necklace

These 4 primitive hand crafted African clay spindle Whorl factory beads are in very good condition, some fading and worn areas, shades of fades black and brown. Also, 5 old hand crafted black/brown African clay beads, and 2 hand crafted African silver beads at either end. Quality, soft 1.5 mm distressed Light Expresso leather, with a silver colored pewter lobster claw for closure. Necklace hang length measures 20 inches.

19th or 20th C

Spindle whorls were used for balancing the spindle as yarn was being spun. They were placed over the spindle and were loose enough to spin as the spindle was twirled back and worth. Spindles were made of both wood and metal.

These spinning aids have been used throughout the world for centuries and come from all cultures. Spindles whorls were carved from stone, shaped from bone, made from clay and some ancient Sassanian whorls were made from hippo and elephant ivory. The smaller and more delicate whorls were made for spinning silk.