A dzi is an agate bead patterned with white eyes, stripes and waves on a dark brown or black ground. Tibetans have treasured dzi for centuries, wearing them as protective charms and handing them down in families. The Tibetan word gzi, pronounced "zee," means shine or brightness. In Chinese they are called tianzhu, "heavenly beads."
How the ancient beads were made
No written record of how dzi were made survives. Researchers believe craftsmen darkened the agate with a sugar solution and heat, painted the pattern on with an alkaline paste such as natron or plant ash, and fired the bead again so that the pattern turned white for good. The technique is related to the etched carnelian beads of the Indus Valley, more than four thousand years old. Where and when the first dzi were made is still debated.
Because farmers turned up old dzi in their fields, many Tibetans believed the beads were formed by nature or came from the gods rather than from human hands.
What the eyes mean
The round eyes give each dzi its name: a three-eye dzi, a nine-eye dzi. One explanation is that the eyes watch back against the evil eye. Each count carries its own wish, and the meanings vary from one teacher to the next. In Chinese tradition the three-eye dzi stands for the three blessings of fortune, prosperity and long life. The nine-eye dzi, the most celebrated of all, stands for blessings of every kind.
Old and new dzi
Genuine ancient dzi are rare, and fine ones sell for very high prices. The dzi in shops today, ours included, are modern beads made in the old patterns. Each product page lists the material.
Wearing a dzi
A dzi is often worn alone on a cord, or set as the centerpiece of a mala with bodhi seeds, turquoise or red agate. Many dzi necklaces pair the bead with the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum. Wipe a dzi with a soft cloth and keep it away from harsh cleaners and long hours in strong sun.
