As Joyce mentions, drilling old marbles is not a new idea. And the reason marbles have not been drilled more often, is because the skill and patience required for drilling glass spheres is rarely available.

Occasionally I have run across some old drilled ones—most likely from Burma. Routinely, the drill bit comes out off center on the opposite side. And, of course, there is always the risk of cracking the bead—especially on a huge marble.

I would prefer to find a bead which has not been adapted or damaged and repaired. The German marble beads which are in better condition have usually come from Burma. The ones in worst condition commonly come from the African trade.

Some of the best ones from my collection are pictured on the cover of the new edition of The History of Beads. Not repaired, nearly flawless German marble beads are seldom available anymore.

When I receive the marble/bead, I will post an image. I am very much looking forward to seeing it.

Sincerely, Fred