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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 serpentine beads brought to you from the mountainous wilds of Afghanistan. The mineral rich landscape of Centr...
View full detailsAdd a sleek look to your upcoming design projects with this pack of Onyx beads. These versatile half-drilled gemstone beads can be used to create s...
View full detailsThis beautiful strand of Garnet Beads is made from durable, natural gemstones. Rich in a deep red hue, these round beads are perfect for a variety ...
View full detailsThese beautiful Cloudy Amethyst Beads will make a unique addition to any jewelry design kit. Each gemstone stone bead is carefully hand-crafted and...
View full detailsThis ready to wear Garnet Necklace is sure to add a spark to any outfit. Crafted from natural Garnet gemstones, this beautiful necklace features a ...
View full detailsThese alluring Garnet beads feature an interesting spade-style shape. The vibrant color of these Garnet Beads is complementary to almost any design...
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 detailsCoral has been prized and worn in jewelry for thousands of years, since before the time of Egypt. It is believed by some that coral relieves melanc...
View full detailsAdmire these carnelian beads which are made of 100% natural agate stone. Take note of their beautiful tone and rustic appeal. These beads are perfe...
View full detailsThese primitive stone beads have a decidedly rustic feel. Formed from naturally translucent quartz stone, the carved oval pattern highlights the un...
View full detailsTake a look at these regal Grey Snake Beads. These durable beads will help add a fun and mysterious vibe to your custom jewelry designs. Many belie...
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 detailsA strand of beautiful Garnet beads adds a touch of elegance to any design project. Cut with the precision each bead has several angled facets that ...
View full detailsPicture Jasper is a unique form of Jasper that has been used by various cultures all over the world for hundreds of years. It gets its name from th...
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 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 detailsCalcite is often known as the stone of emotional intelligence. It is naturally found in deposits from hot springs, caverns, and volcanic-derived ro...
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 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 detailsTake a closer look at these stunning Nephrite Jade Beads. These sparkling dark green beads offer a unique beauty. Each bead measures approximately ...
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 moment to admire these uniquely crafted Large Tibetan Agate Medallions. These Medallions come to us all the way from the high mountaintops o...
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