I just drove from Llasa to Kathmandu. After driving through these old ocean sea beds there is no question in my mind that these people are mining their coral. I am not a rock hound, but if I was, I would hightail it to these ancient sea beds which are absolutely full of interesting rocks. My wife is a certified gemologist and I had to drag her back to the car any number of times
Dec 08, 2010 Rating
Tibetan Coral - Where did they get them? by: Tenzin Ngawang
The Tibetan plateau used to be under the sea until the Indian plate collided with Asia forcing the Tibetan plateau to lift up into the air. Therefore it is not uncommon to find corals and conches in Tibet. I'd assume all of these should be dead and fossilized when they are discovered.
Oct 31, 2010 Rating
Tibetan Coral by: nan
These old glass beads are named after the tribal people of Himalayas who are called Sherpa. Sherpas mostly live in the foot hills of the Himalayas near Mt. Everest. They are known for mountain climbing (especially Mt. Everest). Traditionally, these coral looking glass beads were worn by Sherpa women as replacement of genuine coral long time ago. They are actually traded glass beads from China , India and even Europe. These beads are very popular among Sherpa women and even other ethnic groups of people such as Limbus, Rais, Magars, Gurungs, Thankalis, and Tamangs who live closer to the Himalayas. The people believe it cures you from skin allergies and rashes. These genuine glass beads are about 200 to 300 years old. They do not make them any more. So It is hard to find them these days. They come in salmon pink, yellow and red.
