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Beading & The Art Of Bead Work And Its Importance In The History Of Africa
The ancient Egyptians utilized beads and charms around 2200 BC for the purpose of decoration, beauty, fashion and vanity. Historic Egyptian jewelry beads were made from clay, stone, ivory, bone, faience, glass, bronze, copper, silver and wood. These beads became an object used for exchange by the Egyptians primarily with the nations of Kush and Nubia.
The use of beads as jewelry beads continued to be a tradition in many other countries of Africa. At first their beads were crafted from wood, shells, clay, stone or grass seeds. These beads were used for necklaces, bracelets or anklets. The beads have been also used on blankets and other types of garments. By the fifteenth century, glass beads were introduced by Europeans. Since the glass beads were in various colors, they were utilized for intricate bead work for the very wealthy in southern Africa. Kings in countries like Ghana, Mali and Nigeria wore royal garb so heavily beaded that attendants would have to help them to move about during their duties.
Beadwork was also made to define social status among women. Specific designs worn by women could define young girls from older women in specific tribes. Bead work would show when girls were engaged and to be married. Specific bead work also was used to adorn brides and the women who had recently given birth to their first child.
Within today's Africa, beads are still used and held in high respect. In East Africa beads are made from ostrich eggshells which are prevalent on the Kalahari Desert. In West Africa beads are made from gold and they are called soul money and they're used for different ceremonies of child naming, puberty rites and funerals. Another popular material for beads is glass. Bottle glass is melted and reused into various colors and styles. These beads are irregular and signify a sense of elegance for the person.
In North Africa the Berber tribal women make huge numbers of brightly colored beads. The beads serve as a household asset. When the family income is bad then the beads are sold. The value of the bead is determined on its weight. Bead components can include amber, coral, amazonite, silver and glass. The different types of beads convey different meanings. Amber protects against diseases while coral and silver are good luck charms.
Throughout Africa designers continue the popular tradition of creating beautiful beads.
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