Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry has been an expression of Native American art for thousands of years. This is one Native American art form that has continued in popularity even into modern times.
History of Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry
Because of the durability of beads, there is a large body of archeological evidence of Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry dating back thousands of years. The incredible aspect of Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry is that many of the styles and even the methods of creating this jewelry have not changed in all of that time. Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry may be the only human art form to be continuously practiced for that amount of time.
Historically, Native American Indian beads were used for a number of reasons. Obviously Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry was used as a way to decorate one’s self for special occasions. More significantly, however, was the way in which Native American beads were used in the story telling traditions of many Native American people’s.
“Story Beads” were flattened beads on which were carved certain symbols and figures and then strung in certain a pattern to document a story. In this way, Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry was actually used as some of the earliest types of documented history for Native American people.
Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry has happily made a comeback in popularity in the recent years. Many Native American people are discovering new, exciting ways to use Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry to create needed income on reservations and to help educate the general population on the rich history and artistic expressions of their people.
In addition to selling Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry in various shops located inside reservations, more and more internet sites dedicated to Native American art are making beautiful Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry available to a larger customer base. Now more than ever, people all over the country can enjoy the unique beauty and artistry of Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry.
Uses of Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry
Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry can be used as a unique fashion addition to any jewelry collection. However, people have found many different ways to use these beautiful pieces of art. Native American Indian Beaded Jewelry can also be used to decorate hats, handbags and other personal articles to give it a unique Native American flare.