Here we have an interesting Afghan strand containing a collection of 17 old Blackstone pipe and tube beads, plus a 45mm pendant.
Etched into all the pieces are two, three, four, seven and 10-circular eyes - reputed to be the creations of artisans living in the northern regions of Afghanistan.
It is understood that they all have spiritual significance and value attached to the number of circles (eyes) on each stone which is not too dissimilar to the famous dZi beads from the Himalayas.
If the Asian interpretations are correct, the two-eye pipe pendants are regarded to promote love, a happy marriage, and eliminate evil; the four eye beads represents a long life and provides protection from gossip, while the seven eye pendants is believed to encourage success, health, wealth, longevity, and harmony.
The 10-eye pipe pendants are a symbol of perfection and enhance success in life.
These beautiful pieces of Blackstone are perfect for the creation of tribal and ethnic jewellery designs, though they can be worked in with most other necklace and bracelet designs too; you are only limited by your imagination and knowledge.
The accompanying photos illustrate what to expect in your order; please note that some images have been enlarged to show detail.