Authentic Tribal African Ostrich Shell Beads
Historically, ostrich egg shells are known to have been used by African hunter-gatherers as a light-weight and strong flask or canteen to store and transport various fluids, usually water.
To the San Bushman, ostrich eggs are symbolic of good luck/good fortune. One egg would be a wonderful meal for a family group. The eggshell could be used to store water as a canteen and, of course, the broken eggshells were made into beads for trading, decoration and today, for income and self expression.
Ancient African CraftsmanShip:
These Ostrich Shell Beads are handcrafted using tehcniques passed down through the generations in ancient Africa. Each bead shows the talent and craftsmanship of African artists.
Meaning & Symbolism:
Ostrich Shell Beads were used in jewelry, such as necklaces and bracelets, which had social and ceremonial importance. They were often given as gifts or exchanged in marriage rites and other significant events. These beads were sometimes part of exchanges with other groups and tribes, serving as a form of trade, symbolizing alliances, friendship, and social ties.
Design options:
These beads became integrated into the cultural identity of various African groups. Valued for their durability and beauty. They were crafted by carefully cutting, drilling, and polishing small pieces of eggshell into uniform, round shapes.
Educational & Historic Value:
Ostrich beads serve as great educational tools. They provide a physical link to the rich heritage of ancient Africa, allowing you to share the history and culture behind these amazing artifacts with others.
Collector's Items:
For collectors of historical and cultural artifacts, the Ancient African Ostrich shells beads are a must-have addition to any collection. Each bead is a showcase to the legacy of African Craftsmanship and serves as a physical piece of ancient history.
Ostrich Shell Beads
Limited Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee-
The Smoky Mountain Relic Room stands behind the items we sell with a limnited lifetime guarantee. We will exchange any item for store credit if the item sold is found by a certified authenticator not to be the authentic artifact, fossil, meteorite or mineral that we advertised it as being. A letter, specific to the artifact, fossil, meteorite or mineral in question, from a certified authenticator (in the business under the occupation specific to the item in question) must be brought in with the item for the return to be acceptable. This guarantee is for the lifetime of the initial purchaser only. See the Relic Room Manager, downstairs inside Smoky Mountain Knife Works, for more information. Original receipt required for exchanges.
