Dzi Bead - Value

Value

Market value for ancient beads can easily reach into hundreds of thousands of US dollars - especially for beads with more "eyes." Tiny red cinnabar spots caused by iron inclusion in the agate also increase the value. New etched agate dzi are also highly prized as long as they are well made, contain the traditional patterns, and are made from genuine agate without "dragon skin" or "dragon veins," with a clean, clear look and luster and nicely simulated abrasion signs at the drill holes (these abrasions should slope upward, simulating thousands of years of thread abrasion). New dzi prices range from about ten to two thousand US Dollars, depending on quality and luster. Because of the high value placed on them, Tibetans would typically only part with an authentic dzi bead under very extreme circumstances, such as theft, confiscation by banks or government, or even murder. As a result, many Tibetans have started wearing reproduction dzi in public, out of fear of theft. If the history of an ancient dzi is not known, one should not buy it - it may be bad luck, especially if it is broken in half, was taken from a dead body, has destroyed or defaced eyes, or was obtained through theft, deception, murder, or other unethical means. However, any dzi, full or broken, does bring good luck ultimately if it is genuine. The most important thing to do when buying a real dzi bead is not to buy on impulse; it's always good to consult with different people who deal in these beads and with a little patience, your sixth sense will guide you.