Zimbabwe: Hand-beaded Jewellery

Zimbabwe: Hand-beaded Jewellery

Zanele and her sister Stella from Zimbabwe run a jewellery project that empowers women through employment.

The sisters teach their skills to women from the Ndebele people of the Nguni Tribe. Southern Ndebele people are known for their skilled artistry, painting, beadwork and ornamentation. 

Originally, beadwork was done using seeds and grasses. Since the 1800s, when the Europeans introduced glass beads, the art form has expanded to include more intricate designs.

 

Often, inspiration stems from the colours and patterns of local decorated houses. One necklace can take up to two days to make.

Explore the range here.

  

 

 

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