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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.
Indulge 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 detailsIndulge your eyes in these beautiful zebra serpentine beads brought to you from Afghanistan. The mineral rich landscape of Central Asia has been a ...
View full detailsTake a moment to admire the beautiful intricateness of these artisan White Howlite beads. Howlite can be found in places like Nova Scotia and the m...
View full detailsCreate a statement piece with these stylish Amethyst Beads. Meticulously cut and polished, these stone beads will draw attention with their underst...
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 details of this exceptional strand of hand-patterned Tibetan agate beads fashioned in an oval shape. Each bead shows its own unique char...
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 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 detailsThe striking color of these Aqua Turquoise RIce Beads will be sure to catch an eye. Many believe Turquoise to be a stone of protection and make for...
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 detailsAmethyst Beads are always great for adding a touch of charm to design projects. The translucent light purple tone and smooth glossy finish these st...
View full detailsAdmire these beautiful stones strands of authentic Turquoise. Turquoise beads like this have been sought after and used in jewelry designs for hund...
View full detailsThese off-white matte natural stone beads are versatile as they are fun. Look carefully and you will see that many beads have a patterned surface t...
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 detailsLabradorite is often referred to as a ‘Stone of Magic’. It is believed by some to help one become more self aware of their emotions and psychic con...
View full detailsAdmire these beautiful gemstone crystal beads made from Amethyst. Amethyst is known for its beautiful natural purple color, and is mined in Siberia...
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 beautiful faceted beads are from the mountains of Afghanistan. They are made from recycled, reconstituted stone meant to resemble traditional...
View full detailsGreat strand of sea sediment jasper beads. In some traditions, Jasper is said to empower the spirit and provide energy to those who hold it. The be...
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 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 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 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 detailsAdmire these beautiful raw gemstone beads made from rough Botswana Agate. Agate stone has been used for ornamentation since ancient times and can b...
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