![Black African Trade Bead Pendant](http://jane-tipton-designs.myshopify.com/cdn/shop/products/N499BlackAfricanTradeBeadwithBlueEyesPendant_175JaneTipton_{width}x.jpg?v=1586466636)
Sometimes this style of bead is called a "skunk" bead, or a "thousand eye" bead. In Africa, it is believed that white wards off evil, so these beads are protecting the wearer in all directions. (These "eyes" just happen to be blue.) My theory on how they came to also be known as "skunk" beads is that there is a skunk-like animal in Africa called a zorilla, who, in addition to multiple stripes, does have polka dots on his head. The flower charm has a carnelian center with hematite "petals," and can be worn at the back or to the side in front. The chain is oxidized sterling silver. 18" long.