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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.
This striking Carved Flower Amethyst Bead makes a great addition to any design project. Made from natural stone with a beautiful purple and marbled...
View full detailsRhodonite is a commonly occurring pink gemstone. It is most commonly found in areas like Peru, South Africa, Mexico, Argentina, Japan, South Wales ...
View full detailsThere is nothing more beautiful than the deep and dark tone of emerald green. These Emerald Green Cylinder Serpentine beads are perfect to create a...
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...
View full detailsIndulge your eyes on these lovely strands of Turquoise Stone Beads. Stone Tube Beads like this are a fun a versatile bead to design with. We sugges...
View full detailsThese shimmering Goldstone Beads are truly eye-catching. Not only can you appreciate the earthy clay red color, you can also enjoy the unique speck...
View full detailsThis lovely strand of Garnet Beads is the great for intricate design projects. Each stone bead features a deep purple and red toned color and high ...
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 detailsIndulge your eyes in these beautiful turquoise beads brought to you from the mountainous wilds of Afghanistan. The mineral rich landscape of Centra...
View full detailsThis great set of Lapis Lazuli Heart Beads is ideal for making cute jewelry designs. Lapis Lazuli is popular gemstone that has been used for centur...
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 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 detailsTake a look at these polished non-magnetic Hematite Beads. These durable beads will help add a fun and mysterious vibe to your custom jewelry desig...
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 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 detailsLike the pattern of moonlit summer sky, these Sodalite beads are made from natural mineral stone. The premium finish of these spherical beads adds ...
View full detailsThis strand of purple hued Garnet beads will add subtle beauty and color to almost any design project. Each bead has an almost magical purple and r...
View full detailsIndulge your eyes in these beautiful green jade beads brought to you from Afghanistan. The mineral rich landscape of Central Asia has been a source...
View full detailsTake a look at these polished non-magnetic Hematite Beads. These durable beads will help add a fun and mysterious vibe to your custom jewelry desig...
View full detailsThese 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 luster. S...
View full detailsIndulge your eyes in these beautiful lapis lazuli beads. The mineral rich landscape of Asia has been a source of treasured stones for at least thre...
View full detailsThese unusual turquoise beads have a delightfully rustic feel to them. The slightly irregular shapes, sizes, and colors lend an almost ancient feel...
View full detailsTake a dive into the deep blue tones of these alluring Lapis Lazuli Beads. Lapis Lazuli Beads are known for their vibrant blue hue and inspiring na...
View full detailsIntroducing the 20 Strand Gemstone Beads Starter Pack—a stunning collection designed for creators who love variety and quality. This bundle include...
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