About Ghana Beads
The rich history of Ghanaian beads dates back to ancient times when they were first used as the King’s currency for the exchange of slaves, textiles and alcohol.
Ostrich eggshell beads reveal 10,000 years of cultural interaction across Africa
Researchers present an expanded analysis of African ostrich eggshell beads, testing the hypothesis that larger beads signal the arrival of herders. The data reveals a more nuanced interpretation that provides greater insight into the history of economic change and cultural contact.
African jewellery designers that celebrate SA’s heritage
Iziqhaza were worn in the olden days to differentiate Zulus from other tribes and as a symbol of pride. To stand out, Griffiths has taken the Iziqhaza concept and modified it to make it more sophisticated.
Beaded Mardi Gras costumes by Big Chief Demond Melancon on show at V&A
Beaded costumes designed for the Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans by artist and educator Big Chief Demond Melancon were on show at London’s V&A museum for London Design Festival.
Creative farmer grows jewellery
Linda Crago’s unique custom jewellery comes from plants, clay; even fossilized dinosaur bones
Timimoun African Journey’s Museum at African Heritage House
“It was the first and the last oasis for travellers in and out of Africa,” explains Alan Donovan, creator of the African Heritage House in Nairobi, one of the most photographed houses in the world. It’s fashioned after the breathtaking mud mosques of Timbuktu in Mali.