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Gemstone beads are treasured by many. The power and symbolism of color is central to the cultures of many indigenous tribes in Africa. From the speckled whites and grays of Bauxite Beads which mark the acceptance of a newborn into Krobo society, to the deep reddish brown of Carnelian which symbolizes vitality and fertility, it's no wonder that certain stones are considered invaluable among some tribal cultures. But, African Gemstone Beads aren't just prized for their aesthetic beauty and rarity. Tribes such as the Yoruba also place great value upon certain types of gemstones owing to their former use as early currency. Through early trade routes, there was considerable influx of natural Gemstone Beads such as agate, carnelian and turquoise; stones which were often traded with Yoruban and Bedouin chiefs in exchange for furs, art and slaves.
Unsurprisingly, the collectible value of African Gemstone Beads inspired many artisans to produce counterfeit copies from other less precious materials - the Ancient Egyptians being a great example. After exhausting many of their own turquoise mines, they looked to another material with similar properties: jasper. The vast majority of African Turquoise Beads sold today are produced from this mineral. Bauxite, favored for its reddish-brown marbled appearance, was also used throughout the trade era to produce faux Carnelian Beads, and remains a popular element among native jewelry crafters today.
These natural beads are made using dried lava. They are then electroplated to take on this beautiful metallic finish! Lava is a form of molten rock...
View full detailsAdd a level of fine craftsmanship to your designs with our Turquoise-style stone beads. These beads which are reminiscent of natural turquoise are ...
View full detailsThese natural beads are made using dried lava. They are then electroplated to take on this beautiful metallic finish! Lava is a form of molten rock...
View full detailsTake a closer look at these gorgeous Polished Creek Jasper Beads. Each strand has a striking mix of earthy colors and unique texture patterns. Thes...
View full detailsIndulge your eyes in these beautiful serpentine beads brought to you from the mountainous wilds of Afghanistan. The mineral rich landscape of Centr...
View full detailsThese Picture Jasper Beads have a versatile, bold, and earthy look. The rustic blend of hues on each gemstone bead is created with a unique combina...
View full detailsEach bead measures approximately 10-15 x 10-12mm, with a hole size of approximately 1mm. You will receive one strand measuring approximately 16". T...
View full detailsThese beautiful saucer beads are from the mountains of Afghanistan. They are made from recycled, reconstituted stone meant to resemble traditional ...
View full detailsAmethyst beads are exquisite, semi-precious gemstones that are renowned for their deep purple hue. The color of these beads can vary from light vio...
View full detailsCheck out this amazing strand of high-quality stone beads made of authentic turquoise. This brilliant and unique color will add an unmistakable acc...
View full detailsHere we have a beautiful strand of 9mm skull beads carved from genuine Howlite stone. Howlite is often times said to help eliminate pain, facilitat...
View full detailsThese simple and elegant hematite beads are versatile and easy to incorporate in your own unique jewelry designs. Each bead is electroplated to mim...
View full detailsTake a look at these beautiful Emerald Green Serpentine Stone Heishi Beads. Emerald is a great color to use when creating unique and original jewel...
View full detailsTake a look at these regal Grey Hematite Snake Beads. These durable beads will help add a fun and mysterious vibe to your custom jewelry designs. M...
View full detailsWe are loving these striking Light Green Jade Stone Beads. Light Green Jade makes for an alluring accent piece in almost any necklace or bracelet d...
View full detailsThese Red Garnet Beads have a beautiful clarity and shine to them. This natural gemstone is known for its strong durability. Each bead is cut and p...
View full detailsAdd a calming energy and understated beauty to any jewelry making project with this gorgeous set of Rose Quartz Gemstone Beads. These semi-precious...
View full detailsHere we have a beautiful strand of leopard skin jasper beads in a rondelle shape. These fun, organic beads are made from natural gemstone and measu...
View full detailsTake a look at this great strand of Picasso jasper beads. In some traditions, Jasper is said to empower the spirit and provide energy to those who ...
View full detailsTake a look at this stunning strand of natural turquoise beads! Known for its dense texture and vibrant color, turquoise is a popular gemstone and ...
View full detailsTake a look at these hand-patterned Tibetan agate beads. The special character of this stone bead is apparent by the unique translucence of the bea...
View full detailsCheck out this amazing strand of stone beads made of authentic turquoise. This brilliant and unique color will add an unmistakable accent to your j...
View full detailsThese delightful beads have been fashioned from natural agate stone. The hues of green and brown give an earthy and colorful feel. Agate stone has ...
View full detailsLava is one of the oldest and most frequently found stones in the world. Some consider lava to be a healing stone and believe it to provide a calmi...
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