Description
Strand of Oval Striped 16mm Trade Beads
These two Strands of African Bauxite Trade Beads belong in any bead fan’s collection! One strand measures 26″ long and the other is 18″ long. Bauxite is a sedimentary rock and the world’s foremost source of aluminum. Similar in color to Catlinite, bauxite is also known as “African pipestone.” Bauxite beads are handmade, therefore each one is unique!
Bauxite beads are typically made by grinding and shaping bauxite into small beads or discs. They can have a range of colors, from light tan to dark brown, and often have a natural, earthy appearance. Bauxite beads are popular in jewelry making and beadwork due to their unique texture and color.
One of the advantages of bauxite beads is their durability. Bauxite is a hard, durable mineral that resists wear and tear, making it ideal for use in jewelry and crafts. Bauxite beads are also lightweight, which makes them comfortable to wear.
In addition to their use in jewelry making, bauxite beads are also used in other creative projects such as home decor, fashion accessories, and even as components in musical instruments. They can be strung together to create necklaces and bracelets, or used to embellish clothing or bags. Bauxite beads can also be combined with other materials such as glass or metal to create unique and interesting jewelry designs.
History of Trade Beads
From the 15th to the 20th century, traders carried European glass beads across the world. The beads were highly desired by Native Americans, as glass was then an unknown substance in North American. European glass beads, mostly from Venice, became popular and sought after by Native Americans. Europeans realized early on that beads were important to Native Americans and corporations such as the Hudson Bay Trading Company developed lucrative bead-trading markets with them. The Hudson Bay Trading Company was an organized group of explorers who operated during the 19th century. They ventured into the North American continent for trade expeditions.
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Read about the History of Native American Trade Beads
