They are also known by other names and abbreviations in other cultures and countries, other than the Himalayan. In some countries, ancestors used to revere such sacred ancient Dzis and owned several of them. They are special in every culture. In Islamic culture, it is called arath’man, healing stones which represented with corals and precious stones.
They are said to possess healing properties and are considered sacred because people believed such gemstone bring you to a higher level of spirituality. These gem from different regions such as Yemen and Jordan vary with different supernatural powers. Some believe them to be associated with King Solomon. During the time of John Paul (500 years after Christ), people wore Dzis with red spots (these are highly rare) and are highly valued as some say they represent the blood stains of Christ.
Ancient statues and relics in the silk route have been found to have dzi inside them. Unfortunately, only a small number can be found. It is difficult to trace back on the link in between and history of how some of these significant universal gem actually end up back in the Himalayans and still post a very large mystery. In the past, Dzis are never protected, thus, the best part of that history is destroyed.
There are a lot of legends and myths about these gem dating way back to 500 b.c. The Dzi’s earliest origins are traced back to Persia and Iran and it becomes a very deep and vast subject. 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, Triple-eyed Dzi , Double-eyed Dzi , Tiger-Tooth & Longevity Dzi and others. This Buddha statue is currently placed in Lhasa, Johkang Monastery.
