Ancient Natural One-Eye Agate Bead

• From DharmaShop founder Sander Cohen's personal collection, this rare ancient agate bead was sourced from one of his longtime friends and Tibetan artifact collectors who has spent decades trading in specialty beads and antiques.
• Estimated to be between 600-1,000 years old, this bead is especially meaningful for its unique formation: a dark striped agate body with light banding that creates a single natural "eye." Unlike modern Dzi that mimic this effect, this bead emerged from the earth with its design already intact — a beautiful reminder of nature's artistry.
  
• Striped agates like this are considered the "Mother of Dzi" — the original beads Tibetans collected before the more elaborate "eye" designs emerged. Every detail and marking reflects the foundation from which the tradition of Dzi beads grew.

Ancient agates have been used throughout the ages not only for decoration, but also as protection amulets to shield the wearer from negativity or evil and promote good health. Natural eye beads like this bring protection, clarity, and strength to the wearer, shielding from negativity and enhancing insight.

Time has left its mark in the most beautiful ways: the ends are slightly uneven with small ships, the surface is textured and worn, and the polish has softened into a satin-like finish. These details reveal the beads long life — proof of age, history, and authenticity.

This bead is pictured on an adjustable sterling silver chain but can also be strung on vegan leather cord, or on a mala necklace or bracelet using materials seen on our website. Feel free to contact us about our options!

Details:

Bead is ~1" long and ~0.5" wide.

Adjustable sterling silver necklace measures ~22" around and can be tightened as desired.