Beadwork in African Culture / myLot

Hyderabad, India

June 9, 2016 6:46am CST

Beads are the most important and intriguing symbols in African culture. The materials used in the making of beads/ beadwork vary from bone to glass.The orgin of using beads as per archiology dates back to 10,000.B.C. In Africa, the beadwork still consists of material such as bone, coral, horn, ivory, seeds, and shells. In historical sites of south Africa, and zimbabwe the beads have been found. Uses of Beads; used in Prayers and spiritual representation used in anti-tension devices used as currency: In Ghana they were used as currency Medical purposes Used for Gaming Used for souvenirs and to raise awareness They were also used for waist: stood for womanhood and sexuality., and for body shaping. They are still worn.

3 people like this

4 responses

Judy Evans

@JudyEv (121372)

• Bunbury, Australia

18 Sep 16

Thanks for this information. Beads have a remarkable number of uses in some cultures.

earnnings

@earnnings (1299)

• India

9 Jun 16

Interesting beads are now a days done with papers also. Beads are not only famous in Africa they are famous in India also. Now allover the world is enjoying beads. Do you think that only females wear, no....mostly worn by men.... Beadmaala are worn not in single row there are atleast 5 to 6 rows these are worn by men...

Margarita

@Meramar (2344)

•

9 Jun 16

Very interesting. I like these kind of hand mades works and these kind of stories. We can learn a lot of the african cultures. Some of their beadworks are really beautyfull.

SHREYASI DAS

@Shreyashi (181)

•

9 Jun 16

Beads are also famous here in India. Specially Pearls, women love to add pearl necklaces and bangles in their wardrobe.