Here is a collection of three rare, and highly collectible ethnic two and eight-eye dZi beads (of unknown origin), hail from the Himalayan mountains of Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and Ladakh.
dZi beads are essentially symbols of spirituality – and are quite revered throughout Tibet and Bhutan for providing positive spiritual benefits to the wearer.
They are handmade etched agate beads that have been crafted by the nomadic people native to the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas.
Tibetans cherish the beads and regard them as hereditary heirlooms that are passed down from one generation to another.
They are generally worn as a decorative amulet - suspended off a necklace.
This collection, which would have appeal for both collectors and jewellery makers, contains one very old and well-worn two-eye dZi bead measuring 15x40mm, with a 2mm hand-drilled threading hole traversing the full length.
The two other dZi’s are more recent with each measuring 15x45mm – with a 2-3mm hand-drilled threading hole – one with two-eyes, the other eight-eyes.
And as folklore claims, these beads are both heavenly and spiritual.
And the number of eyes hold considerable significance too.
A two-eye dZi is believed to promote luck and solidify positive friendships, and also encourages love and harmony for a married couple.
Eight-eyes protects the wearer from misfortune and disaster.
And there’s no question they can be used to create amazing ethnic-inspired statement jewellery items such as necklaces, bracelets or an ankle bangle.
These beautiful and unusual beads would make a wonderful addition to your jewellery-making box of special beads.
The beads provide lots of potential for creativity for those artisans with a bent for creating Tibetan-inspired ethnic-style or statement jewellery.
The beads are often used as currency when trading for goods.
The three dZi’s in this collection weigh in at about 45 grams.
The accompanying photos illustrate what to expect in your order, though images may have been enlarged to show detail, and colours may vary slightly due to lighting variants.