Multicolored Glass Bead Bracelet, Ndebele, Width 4cm

49,00 €

Ndebele glass bead bracelet, handmade in South Africa.

  • Material – Glass bead
  • Dimensions: Diameter 7 cm x Width 4 cm
  • Wearable or for decoration. Its generous size makes it a beautiful decorative piece!

Our products are handmade. If you wish to ensure the Zulu bracelet you will receive, we are at your disposal to send you a photo before its shipment!

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Description

Ndebele Glass Bead Bracelet: Empowering Craftsmanship

This Ndebele glass bead bracelet is meticulously crafted by a group of women dedicated to an empowerment-focused organization.

By choosing this piece of jewelry, you support the economic independence and growth of the involved female artisans.

Beyond being a mere accessory, this exquisite bracelet, with its generous size, transforms into a stunning decorative artisanal piece!

  • Material – Glass Beads
    Approximate Dimensions: Inner Diameter 7 cm x Width 4 cm
    A larger size of 4 cm is also available on our e-shop.

Each glass bead bracelet is an exceptional artisanal creation that demands numerous hours of labor. The beads, initially woven, are then sewn onto a straw structure, creating a surface that is both rounded and proportionate. It is through this “padding” technique that the bracelet achieves its attractive curves and dimensions. For these reasons, this bracelet is also a beautiful decorative piece of craftsmanship.

Ndebele Tribe in South Africa: Cultural Vibrancy and Dazzling Craftsmanship

In the heart of South Africa, the Ndebele tribe, a minority community nestled in the eastern Transvaal region, unveils a traditional way of life infused with art and vibrant colors. Coexisting with the Sotho ethnic group, the Ndebeles distinguish themselves through their brightly colored houses, clothing, and jewelry, creating a rich multicolored visual heritage.

The Ndebele tribe possesses a remarkable ability to breathe life into colors and geometric patterns, a artistic talent inherited from their ancestors. Since the 18th century, Ndebele women have adorned their earth houses with vibrant patterns, showcasing their creativity and passion.

These patterns are not merely decorative; they are magnificent expressions of individuality, with each brushstroke telling a unique story that sparks excitement and curiosity. These same patterns are found on this multicolored glass bead bracelet. This distinctive design is extremely contemporary!

The tradition of creating jewelry from beads is an inherent part of Ndebele culture. It is customary to offer jewelry to signify various life transitions. For example, the transition from childhood to adulthood or as a commitment or promise. Similar to rings or alliances, gifts are exchanged in the form of jewelry or clothing as a sign of commitment until marriage. This is called Nduma.

The Sparkling Tradition of Beads

The vibrant colors that characterize the life of the Ndebele are reflected not only in their homes but also in their adornments, especially in beadwork. In this region of South Africa, beads hold a significant place, preceding even clothing in body ornamentation. These colorful geometric patterns, much like those on the houses, are highly decorative.

Each tribe’s art has easily recognizable and identifiable characteristics. An Ndebele bracelet has a very simple design and can also be made using just one color. It’s important to note that the Ndebele are particularly known for their thick beaded netted necklaces, thick leg jewelry, and big-beaded body jewelry worn from the waist to the knee.

From birth, an infant receives a simple strand of white beads, a symbol of luck. Over time, necklaces and bracelets adorn wrists and ankles. With each collective event or change in status, adornments evolve and become more intricate. It’s not uncommon for an Ndebele woman to wear up to 20 kilograms of jewelry, a testament to the richness and diversity of her life.

By choosing this Ndebele glass bead bracelet, you are opting for more than just jewelry. You are allowing this tradition and unique story to endure. Each bracelet narrates a part of this visual narrative, making this decorative piece a witness to the dazzling craftsmanship of the Ndebele tribe in South Africa.

Our products are crafted by hand. If you wish to be reassured about the bracelet you will receive, we are at your disposal to send you a photo before its shipment!

Additional information

Country

South Africa
Modèle

N°1, N°2, N°3, N°4, N°5, N°6, N°7, N°8