Ojime

Ojime (緒締め, lit. "cord fastener") are a type of bead which originated in Japan. They were worn between the inrō and netsuke and are typically under an inch in length. Each is carved into a particular shape and image, similar to the netsuke, though smaller.

A 19th-century Japanese mixed metal ojime bead from All The Decor

A Japanese Meiji Era Signed Gilt Bronze Pearl Inlaid Ojime Bead

Ojime from the Honolulu Museum of Art

The history of Ojime beads dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868). Ojime beads, Netsuke, and Sagemono or Inro cases would be items worn on a traditional Kimono. Kimonos were worn by all classes of people through the 17th-19th century,(Edo-Meiji period), and are still worn today during certain formal functions in Japan.[1]