African Beadwork and Zulu Beadwork.

African Beadwork in South Africa and more specifically
Zulu Beadwork is an age old tradition with African
beading techniques and African patterns being passed
down through the generations. Earth Africa Curio is
fortunate to be situated in Kwa Zulu Natal which is home
to the The Zulu's, who are among the  most skillful and 
creative bead workers in the world. 

For the Zulu's, beadwork is an integral part of their
upbringing and culture, with mothers teaching daughters. 
Zulu beadwork is certainly highly decorative, but the 
significance lies as much in the unique 'language' of the 
beads, as the aesthetic value.

The language of beads is primarily linked to love - Zulu
maidens would send long involved beaded messages to
their lovers, weaving thoughts of love, grief, jealousy or
uncertainty into their intricately patterned creations.
The messages are popularized as Zulu Love Letters.

African jewelry comprising mainly of African bracelets,
African necklaces and beaded ethnic earrings are hand 
crafted by skilled Zulu beadwork ladies and are sought
after as African gifts. These African necklaces are made 
using brightly colored African designs. 

African decor is another favorite with items 
like beaded salad servers and beaded serviette
rings on offer in most South African crafts
markets.