Traditional Zulu Necklace

Beaded Zulu Necklace

 

This is a Zulu beaded necklace. It is worn by the Zulu women and men it is used as adornment and has different meanings to them. It is made using glass and shell beads.

The patterns and colours used on the Zulu beadwork is sort of used as communication among people to understand one another without having to ask as the beadwork and colors do send the message to the reader or observer to understand one's status. The main shape used on the AmaZulu beadwork is the triangle. It is used to indicate one's gender and marital status. When the triangle is pointed upward it represents a woman and when pointed down it represents a man. In this case, wearing this necklace shows your marital status hence wearing a necklace with a diamond shape indicates that you are some fiance or you are married.

This is a Zulu beaded necklace, it is a cultural adornment with communication embedded in its patterns and colors. It is worn by both Zulu women and men, the triangle shape serving as a key symbol indicating gender and marital status. These necklaces are more than just jewelry; they are a vibrant form of silent expression within the Zulu community.

Glass beads, plant fibres ( nylon or cotton). Technique used is beading, stringing and closure (catch).

https://zulubeadculture.weebly.com/symbols-and-meanings.html

https://paintexpert.co.za/the-colour-meanings-of-a-zulu-love-letter/

 https://thegrace.co.za/traditional-beads/