Old Dzi beads being one of the more mysterious stone beads have many saying of their origins. In several Asian cultures, it is considered to provide positive spiritual benefit and generally prized as protective amulets. It is often worn as part of a necklace or as a bracelet. In the olden days, it is also grounded into powder and used in traditional medicine.

 

The most highly prized Dzi beads are those of ancient age, made of natural agate. Over the years, the design and formation of the beads remain a mystery. The decorative symbols composed of circles, ovals, squares, waves, zig-zags, stripes, lines, diamonds, dots, and various other symbolic patterns. Colors mainly range from brown to black, with the pattern usually in ivory white. Dzi beads can appear in different colours, shapes, and sizes; the surface is usually smooth and waxy, from wear over a long period of time.

 

There are a few ways to spot an authentic top-grade old Dzi bead. There should be cinnabar dots or “blood spots” in the white areas. This is highly desirable but relatively rare. Another desirable effect in which the surface of the beads exhibits tiny circular “scaled” marks that resemble the scales of a fish or a snake. Finally the number of “eyes” on the bead. These circular designs are considered significant. The highest number of eyes an old Dzi bead can have is twelve. There is a symbolic meaning base on the number of eyes, arrangement and patterns on the bead. Because of this, old Dzi beads are always highly sought after by collectors.