Dzi or Gzi(pronounced as “zee”) in Tibetan word means “good retribution, dignity and perfection”. The Dzi is a stunning contrasts of black and white (or dark brown) bead of etched or treated agate.

For thousands of years, Tibetans have viewed Dzi as a living gemstone. It is meant for devout worship and is reverently kept and passed down over generations.

The authentic “Pure Dzi” are found primarily in Tibet, and the “Chung Dzi” which is of lesser pure type of Dzi can be found in neighboring countries such as India and Nepal. The “pure” dZi beads are regarded as the most valuable and desirable variety. Etched agate beads not considered pure are called “Chung Dzi”, or “secondary, less important dZi.”

Dzi enjoys great popularity around the world, and it is a revered sacred charm for protection, worship, health, as well as a symbol of wealth.

Places of Origin and Legends Of Dzi:-

There are many stories pertaining to the place of origin and legend about Dzi which includes the following:

• The main places of origin are Western Tibet, Eastern Tibet, Bhutan, Sikkim, Ladakh and certain regions in the Himalayas. Dzi has been around for 2000 to 2500 years.

• Some believed that Dzi originated from a stream in Ngari; another believed that it was the treasure of the Azha Kingdom, Tibet; yet others thought it was one of the gemstones in the treasury of the Tagzig Kingdom.

• Some believed that Dzi is actually a “God’s treasure” which has descended to earth and was discovered by the Tibetans. Hence the Tibetans still regard Dzi as the “heavenly stone”.

• It is also said to be the celestial essence from Manjushri Bodhisattva’s previous incarnate (Manjushri Buddha) and some believed it was made by Asura;

• It is even said to be made from meteorites that plummeted down to earth.

• Some believed that the compassionate Vajravarahi Buddha let Dzi descended to earth to stop the spreading of epidemic because it possessed the power to guard against evil.

Historical Accounts Of Dzi Beads:

The earliest record of Dzi in China’s history is in the Tang Dynasty. When Princess Wencheng married Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, the most expensive betrothal gift was a Buddha statue built according to the image of the 12 year old Jowo Sakyamuni. It was brought to Tibet all the way from Chang’an. The Buddha’s diadem, cape, decorative strap and robe were splendidly adorned with various pearls, agates, turquoises, corals and hundreds of various Dzi, including three Nine-eyed Dzi beads, Triple-eyed Dzi beads, Double-eyed Dzi beads, Tiger-tooth & Longevity Dzi beads and others. This Buddha statue is currently placed in Lhasa, Jokhang Monastery. Hence, we can see that Dzi beads have been used as offerings to Buddha; not only are they sacred, but they are also rare and precious.