Probably the most desirable of all Beads in Tibet and the Himalayan regions is the Dzi (Gzi, Ghzi, Zi) stone. DZi (pronounced zee) is the Tibetan word for this most unusual patterned bead. The word dZi translates as 'brightly burnished' or 'etched' and ancient beads readily command thousands of dollars. They are highly collectable across the Asian continent and are now seeing increasing interest in the West. Some original dZi stones are thought to be thousands of years old and are extremely rare. These ancient beads have a rich history in Tibetan folklore. It is said that only a person with extremely good 'karma' will have the fortune of owning such a bead. Some Tibetans say they originated around 3000 B.C. however, it is unclear as to the exact origin, time of manufacture, or even how long they have been in existence. Maybe beacuse they are shrouded in so much mystery they have become one of the most valuable talismans known to man.
Are they a gift from the realm of the Gods or are they Man-made?
There are many myths and legends that follow the dZi stone, the main belief is that they are not of earthly origin. Some say that they are dropped from the heavens by Gods to benefit those who have the good karma to find them. Their divine origin made the dZi to be both precious and powerful talismans. Dzi stones can often be seen in Tibetan Monasteries adorning the most revered statues. They are thought to bring good luck, ward off evil, and protect the wearer from physical harm. It has even been claimed that they protect the wearer from knife and bullet attacks!!
One story doing the rounds on the net is that a Taiwanese businessman escaped from a plane crash where there were only two survivors. He claimed that this was thanks to the Dzi he had recently purchased for protection. As a result of this story hitting the media, Dzi stones in Taiwan have become extrememly sought after.
In the practice of Tibetan Medicine powdered dZi stone is mixed with ground gold, silver and pearl to produce medicinal pills (Tib: ril bu), with potent healing properties. It is said that those who own a pure dZi will receive blessings directly from the Dragon King Nagarijun. Protection from illness and disease is therefore bestowed. A pure dZi may also bring longevity, fortune, wealth and authority.
Each bead is unique in its appearance. Physical evidence shows that some designs were etched into the surface with tools and others with chemical treatments. It is said that some beads were then buried in the ground for as long as thirty years. Apparently this helped recharge the bead and cleanse it of toxins. When choosing a bead it is the intricate and unique patterns that are of greater value. They command high prices and are difficult to come by. Some universally recognized patterns are zig zags, diamonds, circles, squares, waves, and stripes. Colours will mainly range from browns to blacks with the pattern usually being in white. However, dZi beads can appear in different colours, shapes and sizes. The most valuable of all dZi is thought to be the Nine-Eyed dZi. Apparently there are also 13 eyed dZi which are extremely rare and whether anyone owns such a bead remains to be seen.
Dzi beads have been found by generations of Tibetans. Apparently a good place to find a Dzi was near to a rock pool or hot spring. Tibetans even claim that their cattle would give birth to Dzi after chomping up this mythical creature whilst grazing in the fields! Some legends state that dZi beads were once insects that crawled like worms on the ground. However, the moment it is touched by a human hand it would be petrified and turned into a dZi. The story tells of a man who once saw one of these insects. He threw his hat over it to capture the creature. When he removed the hat, the insect had miraculously turned into a beautiful dZi.
Another legend says that the dZi originated from a sacred mountain in Tibet. In ancient times, a stream was said to flow down its slopes. One day a wicked sorcerer cast a magic spell upon the mountain and the flow immediately stopped. Today, characteristic brown and white striped designs are seen on some dZi beads, like a stream frozen in place.
Although ancient beads are the most sought after, new dZi stones are highly valued for their beauty and symbology. New dZi created in the last 100 years have also been known to command thousands of dollars on the market. For a bead to be recognised as dZi they must be Agate. Dzi made from glass, bone, wood or any other material is not a true dZi. For those who cannot afford to purchase ancient dZi the new dZi beads are an affordable alternative. The best new dZi are made by skilled artisans who have been passed the ancient technique of dZi making through previous generations of dZi makers. Each maker will develop their own technique which will ensure quality and uniqueness of each bead. These techniques are often kept a closely guarded secret. It is therefore extremely difficult to immitate dZi beads. A true 'new' dZi bead that has been made by a highly skilled artisan will be almost impossible to tell apart from ncient dZi.
Today, quality new Dzi beads are being made in Tibet, Japan, Nepal, Singapore, China and Taiwan. Although these are obviously not created by the hands of gods, they are treated agates designed in the same way as the ancient dZi beads. They are still highly valued by Tibetans, Buddhist practitioners and bead collectors. They can be worn around the neck, you can add them to your mala or even set a Dzi into a ring or pendant. These beads are still traded with today. In fact we know of a Tibetan family who recently bought substantial land and property with the trade of one dZi bead alone.
Whatever the origin of these beads they are certainly seeing great interest in the west. Our beads are amongst the best we have seen on the market. If for any reason you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase you may return it for a full refund (see terms). We offer you a complete guarantee that our beads are of the highest quality.
Please note that the bead you see on the site is the bead that you will receive. Unless otherwise stated. All of our dZi are made from genuine agate.
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