Short history of Beading

Beads have been used by mankind since 35-40,000 years! They were made from all kinds of materials like various shells, metals, stone, wood, quills, paper, glass and lately of course the 'lowly' plastic. Throughout history the beads of different types and shapes were much favored as currency. To this day we use the word trade beads. The most popular use of beads soon became ornamental, specially in jewelry. In Africa numerous tribes created amazingly beautiful bead designs. For thousands of years the beads were used, woven and stitched in different ways. Pharaohs wore beads!! In this country the most well known beaded ornamentation is made by the Native American population. The Indians of American continent were using all kinds of quills, animal teeth, skins etc. for creating wonderful designs. But their beading really took a different turn when the first discoverers of the Continent brought glass beads to the Plains Indians toward the end of 1700s. They were often carried on horseback and the name Pony Beads became known. The larger glass beads of today are still sold by that name. In 1900s the women on reservations produced heavily ornamented garments for themselves and their men. The seed beads or small beads were first imported from Italy. Then Czech beads became very popular. Today the best quality of very fine small glass beads called Delicas come from Japan. Jewelry and other items made from them are easily the stuff for heirlooms of the future. The most beautiful African beading these days, favored by American bead artists is made by Ndebele tribe of southern Africa. The masterful and patient workers of the tribe create ornaments from beads even for decorating their houses! They use yet another stitch to add to the variety of textures and beauty to beaded items. But we have come a long way since only native peoples worked with beads! I am an European American who has been working with beads and creating many original and different beaded jewelry pieces for at least 12 years. The possibilities are endless in choice of shapes, colors, stitches and materials. Among many others I consider crystals very glamorous. Freshwater and other pearls have a feminine charm and beauty of their own. As a very enthusiastic beaded jewelry maker I could go on and on.