Additional Information: From Nquthu area Kwa-Zulu Natal. Worn by  unmarried young men and women.  Zulu beadwork has a long history as beads were traded first by Arabs and later Europeans in exchange for ivory, animal products and slaves. Beads were valued as currency as well as decoration. Disingwayo the uncle of Shaka and Shaka himself, controlled the bead trade and monopolized not only the beads but also the colors and designs available to groups within Shaka's control. Beadwork became a status symbol and important item of personal expression. Stylistic variations of beadwork such as pattern, color and color sequence indicate area or group affiliation although some variations occur contemporary beadwork based on fashion and political meaning. Colors and patterns could take on more personally expressive meanings as well in the case of Zulu "love letters." Color and pattern then express symbolically, ideas of personal attachment and affection. Recently beadwork has become a symbol of political identity as well with color and pattern indicating political affiliation. Instead of beads being worn only by the conservative, traditional members of the community, wearing beadwork is increasingly being seen as reclaiming a cultural identity. Recommended Reading:  Hlengiwe Dube, ZULU BEADWORK.TALKING WITH BEADS, AfricaDirect, Inc., Denver, 2009, 112 p Jean Morris (text by Eleanor Preston-White), SPEAKING WITH BEADS. ZULU ARTS FROM SOUTHERN AFRICA   

• Materials: glass, conus shells
• People: Zulu
• Necklace Length: 18 inches and Pendant Size: 1.5-1.75 inches long

Materials: glass, conus shellsAfrica Direct