Gems Across Cultures: Weaving the Fabric of Human Civilization is now on view at Beitou Museum, running from January 24 (Sat) to July 26 (Sun), 2026. Inspired by the Shuowen Jiezi definitions of “zhu” (珠) and “ji” (璣)—one perfectly round, the other uniquely shaped—the exhibition embraces the idea that beauty takes many forms across cultures.

Co-curated with collector and traveler Ms. Wu Pi-Yun, the exhibition features bead adornments spanning thousands of years and multiple regions. From natural materials to crafted glass, highlights include Warring States–period beads, Venetian chevron beads, Roman glass beads, and diverse bead traditions from Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. Each bead is a miniature time capsule, preserving stories of identity, belief, exchange, and aesthetics.

Through objects and visual narratives, visitors will also discover how beads are worn and understood in different communities, and how ancient beads can be re-strung and reimagined today. Follow the glimmering trail of beads to see how human civilizations have been quietly connected—one bead at a time.