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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.
Admire these beautiful gemstone crystal beads made from Amethyst. Amethyst is known for its beautiful natural purple color, and is mined in Siberia...
View full detailsThis beautiful strand of picture jasper beads features an earthy blend of brown and beige tones. These gemstone beads are polished and have a sligh...
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 detailsIndulge your eyes in these beautiful jade beads brought to you from the mountainous wilds of Afghanistan. The mineral-rich landscape of Central Asi...
View full detailsBlack Jet beads are a luxurious and elegant addition to any jewelry collection. These semi-precious gemstones are a deep, glossy black with a smoot...
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 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 detailsIndulge your eyes in these beautiful lapis lazuli beads brought to you from the mountainous wilds of Afghanistan. These delightful, handcrafted gem...
View full detailsThese beads are made of hematite stone. Hematite is said to reduce anxiety, tension, and stress and can be used to facilitate awareness, and encour...
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 high-quality stone beads made of authentic turquoise. This brilliant and unique color will add an unmistakable acc...
View full detailsAdmire the details of this exceptional strand of hand-patterned Tibetan Agate beads fashioned in a rondelle shape. Each bead shows its own unique c...
View full detailsTake a look at these beautifully patterned jade beads. The special character of this stone bead is apparent by the unique translucence of the beads...
View full detailsThese beautiful cylindrical-shaped beads are from the mountains of Afghanistan. They are made from recycled, reconstituted stone meant to resemble ...
View full detailsThese Aventurine Chip Beads are a great option for your design projects. With a shimmering green hue, it is easy to see why Aventurine is a favorit...
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 detailsSimilar to lava beads, these porous lightweight stone beads are fun to work with. Each bead measures approximately 8mm in diameter with a hole size...
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 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 stunning Malachite stone Beads. Malachite is known all around the world due to its deep green color and intricate patterns. Ma...
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 detailsThese beautiful Amethyst Beads have a gorgeous mix of purple tones that will add an eye-catching look to your designs. Being a Graduated and Carved...
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 detailsCheck out this amazing strand of high-quality stone beads made of authentic turquoise. This brilliant and unique color will add an unmistakable acc...
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