Few beads are surrounded by as much mystery and myth as the dZi bead (say 'zee'). These etched agates are found in Tibet, Bhutan, Ladakh, and Nepal, and are believed to be about two thousand years old. Many legends accompany the beads: that they were not made by man but created by the gods and that they bring luck and ward off evil. They are said to protect the wearer from physical harm by taking the abuse upon themselves, and that the bead itself will choose its' owner and will not stay with an unlucky person.
Origins & Facts:
While possibly not actually Tibetan in origin, Tibetans and other Buddhist cultures (such as those of Ladakh and Nepal), have embraced these beads and imbued them with mystery and belief. As fascinating as the cultures are that surround these beads, perhaps the most notable feature is the almost complete absence of actual facts. What we do know is; that they are found in the Himalayan region and span from just one thousand years ago to possibly as old as four thousand years; it is certain they predate Buddhism by quite a bit; and it seems likely that they were made by the Bonpo people.
The dZi bead has come to be commonly accepted as a 'Tibetan' bead, and Tibetans have become the world's experts on these fascinating beads. Tibetans evaluate the purity of a bead by many criteria, such as good contrast, desirable patterning, symmetrical shape and strong color.
All of our dZi beads come with a money back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied.
