Beadwork
The art of using glass beads to make jewelry of all kinds has a long tradition in South Africa. Bead art began as early as in the 16th century, as colonial powers used glass beads in exchange for ivory, wild animal skins and livestock. The works of art made from glass beads served not only as jewelry, but also for communication or signaling.Thus, the colors and shapes of the jewelry signaled characteristics of the wearer. The term jewelry was much broader than today. For example, entire garments were made of glass beads. Today, beadwork is a South African work of art, made predominantly by women. By selling the beadwork, the women can contribute to the family income.
