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The authentic, genuine, and pure Dzi is not something cheap. The high value of Dzi has created many imitations that have entered the market. It is MUCH easier to find imitation products than an authentic one. Follow these steps to reduce the risk of getting cheated by dishonest sellers.

 

1. Purchase Dzis from reputable sellers. These people might claim they are selling authentic Dzi beads at low prices. They may not be legit and you might not able to find them later.

2. Purchase the Dzi from an established company, someone you can trust, or someone with good knowledge in this field. It will be ideal to bring along an expert if you plan to spend a lot on Dzi bead. Bring along the necessary equipment such as a10x or a 30x loupe.

3. Improve your knowledge on Dzis before making the purchase. There are many books and articles on the internet that can help you understand more about Dzis, Tibetan culture, and Buddhism. Equip yourself with such powerful knowledge that you will reduce the risk of making the wrong decision.

4. Adjust your budget for the Dzi that you want to purchase. If you are not able to invest a lot into possessing a Dzi, start with the cheaper one. When you feel that a Dzi has completed its role for you or your family, then upgrade to a better one.

5. A certificate issued by the seller may not be legitimate. A certificate of a gemstone is valid only if it is issued by a third party with no financial interest in the transaction between the buyer and seller. Many sellers issue their own certificate which are meaningless; the bead is not investigated by third party and no analysis data attached.

6. Do not be influenced by the sales person. Maintain a clear state of mind when purchasing. Do not let the sales person make you purchase something out of your budget, an imitation product, or a Dzi that not suitable for you.

 

Spotting Imitation Dzis

 

Authentic Dzis are said to have medicinal powers. They are used in Tibet to cure illnesses ranging from high blood pressure to heart disease. Collectors of Dzi have to watch for fakes, which are sometimes marketed as Middle Age Dzi or Antique Dzi instead of Ancient Dzi Beads. Distinguishing the authentic Dzis from fakes involve seeing the Dzis in person, as you must be able to touch them and view them under magnification.

1. Look for Cinnabar Dots or Blood Spots. These are red dots on the Dzi that are formed from inside of the rock. In some cases, newer authentic Dzis may not have these dots.

2. Inspect Weathering Marks. In authentic Dzis, the weathering marks will be uneven and the edges will be smoothed down from the weatherization process. In fake Dzis, the weathering marks will seem uniform and the edges of the marks will be sharp. A magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe is needed to fully inspect the marks.

3. Look for Medicinal Digs in the Dzis. An authentic Dzi will have small chips where the Tibetans dug into the bead for medicinal purposes. Fake Dzi makers usually don’t take the time to recreate these marks.

4. Notice the Sheen on the Beads. There should be variations in the way light is reflected on the Dzis, as it isn’t likely that the entire bead will weatherize exactly the same. During the natural weatherization process, an oil-like sheen is formed on the Dzi.

5. Run Your Finger Along the Holes at the End of the Dzi. Fake Dzis are usually completely smooth. Authentic Dzis usually have a slightly rough texture around the holes.

6. Cost. Fake Dzi beads will cost significantly less than authentic beads. Authentic beads usually cost over $100, and possibly more than $1,000 per bead.

7. Look for Crystal in the Bead or for Streaks in the Bead. In new or fake Dzis, most won’t have natural looking streaks in the beads and won’t have any crystal in the bead.