Mystical beads...

Late 20th Century beads. (Catawiki Auctions)

​Well I've been crazy busy and haven't written in a while but another year is coming to a close and I have learned so many new things about jewelry and stones this past year.  I really wanted to share them with everyone, so I am going to try to incorporate some of these things in my blog and I hope that what I pass on may inspire you as I have been inspired.

I thought I would start with some things that inspired me the past few months.  I have purchased and used Dzi (pronounced Zee) beads in the past just because I thought they were so pretty.  What I didn't know until recently is the history of Dzi beads.  They go back to ancient Asian cultures, found as early as 1000 - 2500 BC and are considered to provide positive spiritual benefits, as well as, warding off bad spirits and negativity.  How they were made in ancient times remains a mystery.  Nobody knows the exact techniques that were used in the etching and carving process.  They are mainly used in necklaces and bracelets and were worn by leaders of ancient Tibetan religions.  These truly ancient beads are much sought after and are worth a small fortune.   But not to worry, new beads have been created to replace the priceless, ancient ones.  These are readily available and much more affordable while still maintaining the mysticism of the originals.

They are stone beads and usually agate with black and white patterns that can resemble eyes.  The number of "eyes" on the stone also have significance.  For instance, one eyed beads represent light, hope and happiness.  Beads with two eyes help in building good relationships with others.  The number of eyes all have different meanings.  There are also beads with banding or stripes.  The different types of stripes and banding also have different meanings.  Another way to look for Dzi beads is by your birth year under the Chinese Lunar Calendar.  So you may want to look for particular beads to help you achieve your goals.  I'll post a link with much of this information at the end of the blog.

When you find your beads, it can be a good idea to cleanse them to release any stored up energy in them and start fresh.  You can cleanse them by holding them under running water for a few minutes.  Keep positive thoughts while cleansing.  Then dry your stones and set them out in the sun for a while.  Then they are ready to be used in your beautiful creations.  Keep in mind that they need to continually be cleansed in order to remove any negative energy that they pick up in the process of protecting you.

There is much more information available about Dzi beads online and I think it's a fascinating read.  Their history is long and amazing.  While I personally can't afford the older beads, I still think the newer versions are lovely and exude a mystical energy, so I'll continue to use them in my designs.  I feel that I now have a greater appreciation for them and am amazed at the stories the different patterns tell.  I hope that maybe you will be inspired to try your luck with Dzi beads.  I will be further exploring the "eye" symbol in my next blog.  Until then, happy beading!

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References:
https://owlcation.com
​https://tibettravel.com
Photo:
https://auction.catawiki.com/kavels/18470887-eight-decorative-dzi-beads-asia-late-20th-century