Chung Dzi

Chung Dzi is an often misunderstood category of Dzi.  This is mainly caused by improper translation of the Tibetan language.  Some people think the “Chung” in Chung Dzi is a Tibetan word meaning “lesser” or “undesirable.”  This is most definitely mistaken as Chung Dzi has always commanded great value.   Rather, the “Chung” in Chung Dzi is a Tibetan word meaning “crystal”, which is what the ancient Tibetans called agate and chalcedony.

To further the confusion, ancient Tibetans believed that Dzi with eyes were gifts from the gods.  They called these Pure Dzi.  All the other Dzi, the Dzi crafted by Man, were collectively called Chung Dzi.

For our purposes, we will use the term Chung Dzi to refer to Dzi Beads adorned with striping.