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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 this beautiful strand of natural agate beads. The unique character of the stone is shown through the swirl of tones that float across its su...
View full detailsThe variations in color give these beige stone beads a rustic feel. Their versatile size makes them great as spacers, for use in bracelets, or all ...
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 moment to admire these beautiful Spessartine Garnet Stone Chunk Beads. If you look closely you will notice that each natural stone has its o...
View full detailsTake a closer look at these vintage Aventurine beads. Featuring a unique moss green color, these gemstone beads are perfect for making an elegant s...
View full detailsThese stunning faceted Garnet Beads are simply mesmerizing! Each bead has a captivating, glossy and slightly reflective texture. Crafted from gorge...
View full detailsThese beautiful stone beads are from the mountains of Afghanistan. They are made from recycled, reconstituted stone meant to resemble traditional M...
View full detailsThese off-white natural stone beads are versatile as they are fun. Look carefully and you will see that many beads will have a textured patterned s...
View full detailsThese off-white natural stone beads are versatile as they are fun. Look carefully and you will see that many beads will have a textured patterned s...
View full detailsTake a moment to appreciate the luxurious hues of these carnelian beads. Commonly referred to as the 'Stone of Confidence', Carnelian beads can mak...
View full detailsThis strand of striking natural Onyx beads is a versatile style that can be used in a variety of creative ways. These beads are perfect for creatin...
View full detailsTake a moment to admire these beautiful Spessartine Garnet Stone Chunk Beads. If you look closely you will notice that each natural stone has its o...
View full detailsThese Translucent Amethyst Beads will add a subtle shimmer to your designs and crafts. Each gemstone bead reflects and shimmers in the light. Perfe...
View full detailsAdmire these beautiful red jasper beads. These unique beads have traveled multiple continents, and are a rare and special find! Red jasper is a sto...
View full detailsUnakite beads are a beautiful combination of green and pink that create a unique, mottled appearance. These semi-precious gemstones are often used ...
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 beautiful cylindrical-shaped beads are from the mountains of Afghanistan. They are made from recycled, reconstituted stone meant to resemble ...
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 detailsTake a look at these hand-patterned Pumket beads from Southeast Asia. Each extra long 44" strand includes a medley of shapes including elongated, r...
View full detailsCheck out this amazing strand of stone beads made of authentic turquoise. This subtle and unique color will add an unmistakable accent to your jewe...
View full detailsTake a closer look at these amazing Turquoise Oval Beads. Natural Turquoise Beads are so much fun to design with! We suggest pairing these Turquois...
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 detailsUnakite beads are a beautiful combination of green and pink that create a unique, mottled appearance. These semi-precious gemstones are often used ...
View full detailsThese faux turquoise stone beads will add a splash of color to any jewelry designs. Look carefully and you will see that many beads have a patterne...
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