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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 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 gorgeous strand of Snowflake Obsidian Beads is perfect for creating unique handmade jewelry. Each bead has a deep black coloring with a unique...
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 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 detailsRed Jasper beads are a bold and striking addition to any jewelry collection. These semi-precious gemstones feature a deep red color with natural va...
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 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 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 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 eccentric agate beads. The unique sandstone finish evokes the timeless landscape of saharan sand dunes. Each strand includes 1...
View full detailsGreat strand of sea sediment jasper beads. Beautiful marbled pattern on each bead gives a distinct look. Versatile beads for any beading project. I...
View full detailsGreat strand of sea sediment jasper beads. Beautiful marbled pattern on each bead gives a distinct look. Versatile beads for any beading project. I...
View full detailsThese rustic quartz beads are said to have been hand-cut and bow-drilled by Dogon tribesmen ages ago. While today such production methods are consi...
View full detailsThese beautiful Deep Purple Amethyst Beads are perfect for almost any jewelry design project. Made from Natural Amethyst these polished gemstone be...
View full detailsDive into the deep, rich hues of our Dark Round Amethyst Beads. These captivating beads are perfect for crafting jewelry that stands out with elega...
View full detailsAdmire this beautiful strand of prized African Carnelian beads from Nigeria. These stone beads have been polished to perfection to bring out their ...
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 detailsThese off-white natural stone beads are versatile as they are fun. Look carefully and you will see that many beads have a patterned surface that so...
View full detailsThese whimsical stone beads are fashioned in a banded pattern similar to that of malachite gemstone. Available in a variety of sizes and colors, th...
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...
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...
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 detailsThese beautiful faceted beads are from the mountains of Afghanistan. They are made from recycled, reconstituted stone meant to resemble traditional...
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