For instance, some Asians wear carnelian to ward away evil. In the Middle Ages, people wore garnet to ensure good luck. Amber beads hold a special place of honor in the history of beads. Since prehistoric times, humans have worn amber, or fossilized tree resin, as ornamentation. The Greeks liked its warm, golden color that reminded them of the sun, and they believed that amber pieces were frozen tear drops or bits of the sun.
Beads can also convey certain meanings and sentiments.
During an Asian harvest ceremony, beads may be scattered in order to ensure a good yield. In the Philippines, officials perform a wedding by placing two beads in a cup together. In a similar way to the Victorian language of flowers, young Zulu girls have perfected the craft of weaving beads into interesting love letter that can be worn around the neck. Colors indicate the conveyed message.