I have to admit I am feeling a tad bit spoiled, and was shocked to say the least that I received these for Christmas. One Lucky Girl...:)Of course I know very little about these beads, but after seeing the price tags I hope they are authentic, they came from a personal collection of a man my Dad bought from over a 20 year period. I apologize ahead of time for the spelling of his name, Mohammadu Drame, whom I believe has since retired somewhere in LA. Enjoy:) I have been avidly researching them since. Any input or information as always is greatly appreciated!~Anne