Dzi Bead

Dzi (gzi) bead is a special stone worn as part of necklaces or bracelets in some parts of Asia, like for example in Tibet. It is believed that these beads are protective amulets. In Tibet such beads are sometimes grounded into powder and used in traditional medicine. The most expensive dzi beads are made of agate. Dzi beads exist in many different colours, shapes and sizes.

Tibetan Dzi bead

Very important part of every dzi bead is so called “eye”. The eye is a round small circular design existing on the bead. Number and arrangement of these eyes have different symbolic meaning. The highest number of eyes on one bead is 12. Tiny red spots of white areas are also something that is highly important. Tiny circular weathering marks on the surface of a bead are called “Naga skin”.