I wish you lived nearby, so you could study my cloisonné bead collection. It would be fun to look at them closely with you. And you seem to be one of the few people in the world who would make me feel as if I had done the right thing holding onto them.

Also, I have a feeling that you will eventually know more about cloisonné beads than I do. Meanwhile, perhaps I should try to help and encourage your tenacity. And, when I find time, I may photograph some of my antique Chinese cloisonné beads for you.

However, not only are most of the cloisonné examples posted on your blog from the 1970's-80's, but the clasp and carnelian beads you just posted here on BCN are also from the 70's-80's. The small size of the hole on the cloisonné bead is the clearest evidence that these are later rather than earlier. (With the exception of some Ching Dynasty OPENWORK enameled beads.) The size of the aperture in 1930's-50's beads is much larger. The patterns and colors are also different. I find there is credible evidence for these facts.

Oftentimes, hearsay on eBay is not a believable record of ownership of a work of art or an antique. Furthermore, hearsay on eBay is not useful as a guide to authenticity or quality. It has been well established that some sellers often unwittingly feel forced to misrepresent their merchandise.

Eventually I may get around to making images of more of my beads for you. Although this is your treatise -not mine...Do you still have any older examples on hand to compare these with?

The leading San Francisco importer of these beads from 1967-2000, Eva Dang, lives about one mile from me. I was one of her customers during that time period. Am not sure whether she uses the internet or feels like corresponding. But I can ask when I run into her again.

This forum helps me learn something new everyday. And some of the best eBay sellers read and participate here.

Just Fred