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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.
Take a look at these stunning Malachite stone Beads. Malachite is known all around the world due to its deep green color and intricate patterns. Ma...
View full detailsGarnet gets it name from the Latin word malogranatum which means pomegranate. In ancient times it was believed that Garnet was a great protection s...
View full detailsThese Metallic Lava Snake Beads offer both flexibility and durability. These striking beads are made using dried lava. They are then electroplated ...
View full detailsWe are loving the intricate patterns on the sides of these Oval Eye Tibetan Agate Beads. These beads come to us all the way from the highlands of T...
View full detailsTake a moment to admire the lovely blue shades of these Lapis Lazuli Faceted Beads! Natural Lapis Lazuli Stone Beads can help add a great texture t...
View full detailsWith traditional designs from the mountainous regions of Tibet, these handcrafted matte agate beads are a beauty to behold. Intricately patterned s...
View full detailsIndulge your eyes in these exquisite lapis lazuli beads, sourced from a premium vintage stock. For centuries, lapis has been treasured for its deep...
View full detailsCheck out this great strand of stone beads made of authentic turquoise. The rustic character of these beads will add an unmistakable accent to your...
View full detailsThis gorgeous pack of natural Gemstone Carnelian Beads is perfect for creating a translucent pop of color in you jewelry designs. You can string th...
View full detailsThese beautiful heishi-shaped beads are from the mountains of Afghanistan. It is a medley of beads including those made from genuine jade, as well ...
View full detailsAdmire the dark hue of these genuine Black Onyx Beads. Like the darkness of night, these beads can add an element of mystery to your creative desig...
View full detailsAdmire the dark hue of these genuine Black Onyx Beads. Like the darkness of night, these beads can add an element of mystery to your creative desig...
View full detailsTake a moment to admire these beautiful Garnet gemstone beads. If you look closely you will notice that each natural stone has its own unique rich ...
View full detailsTake a look at these enticing interlocking snake beads. Modeled after traditional Czech snake beads, newer beads like this are durable and very eas...
View full detailsGarnet gets it name from the Latin word malogranatum which means pomegranate. In ancient times it was believed that Garnet was a great protection s...
View full detailsThese beautiful Round Phrenite Agate Beads, each measuring 6mm in diameter, make a lovely addition to any jewelry-making project. Perfect for neckl...
View full detailsTake a look at these stunning Malachite stone Beads. Malachite is known all around the world due to its deep green color and intricate patterns. Ma...
View full detailsTake a closer look at these charming stone beads. Coming in a vibrant neon orange tone these carved skull beads can be designed with in a subtle or...
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 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 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 detailsThis pack of natural gemstone beads are made from the metamorphic rock known as Tiger's Eye. Tiger's eye is known for its golden color and silky lu...
View full detailsIndulge your eyes in these beautiful lapis lazuli beads brought to you from the mountainous wilds of Afghanistan. The mineral rich landscape of Cen...
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...
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