Jewelry Handmade by Global Artisans

This one of a kind, South African-Zulu handmade necklace reflects the detailed beadwork

traditionally made of glass seed beads. 

The Origin of  Zulu beadwork?

According to The Metropolitan Museum of Art historians, "The Zulu peoples, among many other southern African cultural groups, have maintained a rich tradition of beadwork. The earliest commentaries describe pieces of bone, small horns, shells, and small pieces of polished wood and stone that were pierced to make "beads" and strung together as necklaces and belts. The end of the eighteenth century saw the introduction of glass and ceramic beads, as these items began to be heavily used in trade with Europeans. Initially, the use of these prized beads was restricted to Zulu kings and other members of the royal homestead. By the second half of the nineteenth century however, the quantity of beads that was being imported increased dramatically, making them available to the general population.

Zulu beadwork was and remains a woman's form of expression. Young women would make these beaded ornaments for themselves, their siblings and friends, and their boyfriends. Once married, they would also make them for their children and husbands. The message woven into such beaded items was thus also very personal and could only be fully understood by those close to the maker."

We recommend gentle care when cleaning, with a dry cloth to maintain the artisan made jewlery's integrity.