Dzi Beads
Dzi beads (pronounced Zee) are very old, believed by Tibetans to bring luck and protection to the wearer. Dzi ("zee") beads are very popular and much energy has been spent upon them. Yet, no one knows where and when they were made. Some people claim to know, but I have yet to see a convincing argument.

Two processes are usually involved in making Dzi beads. One is the staining of a stone brown or black as is done for onyx. The second is the so-called "etching." When darkening the stone, areas are blocked off with a resist (such as grease). Later these areas are whitened by the "etching" process.

For more infomation go to http://www.thebeadsite.com

Etched Carnelian
Alkaline "Etched" carnelian agate date as early as 2500 B.C. The "etching" of beads is a misnomer, because alkalis, not acid is involved in their decoration

Naga Beadwork
Naga, formerly of India produces beautiful beadwork with red glass, shell, brass, coral and turquoise

Puntek Beads
Puntek: fossilized and etched palm wood from Burma

Java Beads core form glass beads from Java Indonesia