The word "bead" comes from the Alglo-Saxon "bidden" (to pray) and "bede" (prayer). Beads have their origins in the spiritual realm, as "tools" for devotion, but their destiny has often been more practical.

From time immemorial, Arabian silversmiths have perfected their skill as the world's best jewelers. Their role in the ancient land was an important one. Jewelry, made from silver and precious beads, was portable wealth -- like money! Since jewelry was the only means of transferring wealth, it was vital in arranging marriages and celebrating births. Each piece of antique jewelry has a rich history.

Until recent times, the silver jewelry of a Bedouin woman was melted down upon her death and re-made in to new pieces. The necklaces of pearl, precious amber, coral, lapis lazuli and delicate silver filigree were taken apart and used to make new pieces of jewelry. But during the past hundred years, families have kept this jewelry intact, with its value increasing over time.

The necklaces, bracelets, anklets and earrings that are currently designed in Yemen are remarkably similar to those that have been excavated in the old (3000 years ago) Sabaean ruins from the time of the Queen of Sheba.

The romantic legends of Sheba focus on her relationship with King Solomon (1000 BC). It is said that Sheba and Solomon became aware of each other's wealth and power and quickly arranged to meet. Sheba traveled by camel caravan to greet Solomon with gifts of gold, frankincense and precious silver and amber beads.

Recently, the luxurious palace of this wealthy and famous queen has been discovered and is being excavated from beneath the golden sands of the small town of Mareb, in central Yemen. The whole world will soon learn more about this most famous woman and her wealthy kingdom. But we already know quite a bit about her influence on art, style and the jewelry beads that are known as "Arabian."

While covering the excavation of the Queen of Sheba's palace in Yemen, ViewZone Magazine obtained permission to export this exotic jewelry to help the local artisans maintain their endangered way of life. We are now able to offer the world's most elaborate and precious beads through this web site.

The beaded necklaces of Yemen come in a variety of designs. Many designs are traditional and specific to a village or region --unchanged for millennia. Beaded jewelry was used by the elite to worship, and many necklaces have small boxes or silver compartments where verses from the Koran were written and worn. Although this jewelry would is well suited for museum exhibits, it simply begs to be worn.

Many beads are old and show signs of character and history. Since this is the appeal of ancient beads, we have left this oxidation intact (remember these are often antiques), but they will easily shine up to their full silver brilliance. The silver is excellent, although it was cast well before the modern process that we know of as "sterling." Much of the silver has its historical origins in the silver coins that were traded along the ancient camel caravans and frankincense routes.

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ViewZone has made special arrangements to locate and export these rare and authentic pieces and we are offering them for sale - sent FedEx or from Yemen to you - with a substantial portion of the profits remaining in Yemen villages where the life and culture of these special craftspeople will be maintained.

Enjoy the images of this rare jewelry now by clicking on the categories in the bottom window. Please let us know your comments and thank you for your interest!

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Yemen is a proud partner for world peace.
"Let us all understand each other better."