What do African beads symbolize?

What do African beads symbolize?

Waist beads are a traditional African accessory that consist of small glass beads on a string or wire worn around the waist or hips. In Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and other West African countries, waist beads are a symbol of femininity, fertility, sensuality, and spiritual well-being.

What do African necklaces mean?

The Significance of African Beads Large and colorful beads symbolize wealth and social status, and blue beads are thought to enhance fertility. Red beads are reserved for ceremonies like tribal festivals, funerals, circumcisions of young boys and harvest dances.

What is a Maasai necklace?

The beaded handmade jewelry from the Maasai women is a tradition from this tribe, located in Southern Kenya. Before, the tribe used natural resources to create their jewelry. Clay, wood, bone, copper and brass are just few of the materials that were used.

What are spiritual beads?

Mala beads, also sometimes known as Buddhist prayer beads, are long necklace-type tools traditionally used for mantra practice and meditation. Mala beads typically have 108 beads on them (a sacred number which represents spiritual completion) plus a single “guru” bead to signify the beginning and end of a count cycle.

What do beads signify?

Beads, whether sewn on apparel or worn on strings, have symbolic meanings that are far removed from the simplistic empiricism of the Western anthropologist. They, or pendants, may for instance be protective, warding off evil spirits or spells, or they can be good luck charms.

Why do the Maasai wear necklace?

Beaded jewelry is not just decorative, but a vital aspect of Maasai culture. Jewelry is made and worn to indicate age and social status as well as to mark important events. For example, when a woman becomes engaged, she’s gifted a special engagement necklace consisting of two intertwined beaded strands.

What kind of beads are used in African jewelry making?

If so, you’re going to LOVE our collection of African jewelry making beads. Whether you’re looking to create bold beaded necklaces, wooden jewelry, or a uniquely crafted Nigerian-style bracelet, you’re certain to find the perfect piece for your design from our African & trade bead collection.

Where can I find authentic African ethnic jewelry?

Authentic ethnic jewelry from Africa, Morocco, Tibet, Afghanistan and all over the world! Vintage necklaces, bracelets, collectable charms, figural rings and more!

Do you love African-style jewelry as much as we do?

Do you love African & tribal-style jewelry as much as we do?! If so, you’re going to LOVE our collection of African jewelry making beads.

What kind of necklaces are made in Senegal?

These hand-crafted necklaces are beaded in Senegal and feature genuine cowrie shells; which are symbolic of good luck and fertility in Africa. The cowrie shells are beaded onto authentic leather. All sets are an assortment.