The Zulu people were not fooled that glass beads were precious stones., In the African tradition, kings were known to wear beaded regalia so heavy that they required the help of attendants to get out of their thrones., Among the Zulu women, the craft of beadwork is used as an educational tool., Personal adornment items include jewelry, skirts, neckbands, and aprons., There are many other beaded objects in the Zulu culture., Most importantly, however, Zulu beadwork is a source of communication., In the Zulu tradition, beads are a part of the language with certain words and symbols that can be easily read., A finished product is considered by many artists and collectors to be extremely poetic., The code behind Zulu beadwork is relatively basic and extremely resistant to change., A simple triangle is the geometric shape used in almost all beaded items., A triangle with the apex pointing downward signifies an unmarried man, while one with the tip pointing upward is worn by an unmarried woman., Married women wear items with two triangles that form a diamond shape., Married men signify their marital status with two triangles that form an hourglass shape., Colors are also significant., Young Zulu girls quickly learn how to send the appropriate messages., Males learn how to interpret the messages.

ELS Reading Beadwork

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