Inspiration..

 

African Waist Beads

Waist Beads

 

So awhile ago my Godmother asked me to make some adjustments to a couple of her African waist beads. I must admit this was the first time I’ve actually heard about waist beads, needless to say I had to look them up. Again, I love the cultural symbolism with jewellery and waist beads tick all the boxes.  Thought to have originated from Yoruba tribes in West Africa, and popular within Nigeria and Ghana, the beads can be perceived as a symbol of femininity, sensuality and fertility, not to mention simply as an ornamental fashion item.

Supernatural associations with the beads range from a symbol of protection to pregnant women, and my favourite, a lure used by brides for their new husbands!

I don’t normally use seed beads for anything other than ‘spacers’, but African waist beads have definitely inspired me to do something with 1kg wholesale packet of brown seed beads I’ve been struggling to use!

What to do with these...

Moroccan Berber Jewellery

Traditional Berber jewellery

I’ve always loved traditional ‘ethnic’ jewellery from various parts of the world. I love the variety of bold pieces in striking colours and designs, all following similar themes reflecting a great sense of cultural identity, and for the most part can be traced back to various historical traditions and symbolism.

A couple of years back I had the privilege of visiting Morocco. There I discovered the gorgeous Berber jewellery; I’d say my favourite style of bead jewellery. If anyone has ever made a visit to Marrakech, in particular the incredible Jamaa El Fna you will most likely have come across Berber jewellery at some point. Needless to say I bought a fair amount! The bold pieces are mainly beading and silver, with key abstract and geometric patterns, and large, striking centre pieces.

The jewellery is often made by an independent craftsman, and I love the fact that such a unique and beautiful art form has not been exploited and is still very true to its cultural identity and traditions. 

Some of my collection..