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The best way to keep up with the latest on beading is to constantly stay on the lookout for new information. Current info is
not always the easiest thing to locate. Fortunately, this article includes the latest available.
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When you hear the word beads, do you immediately think of jewelry? Or do you think of Rosary beads or some other non-jewelry
use of beadsbeaded dresses, headbands, belts? Perhaps you think of a country and western outfit, a studded, head-to-toe piece of
jewelry.
The first thought that enters your mind when you hear the word beads may date you and give away your age faster than physical
attributes. If youre a product of the 50s, your mind may wander to pop beads, those plastic pull apart, pop together baubles that
have risen in value from pennies to $20, $30 or more. If youre a product of the 60s, you may think of love beads, which
complemented the long-haired, unkempt look, or your mind may wander to the long strands of beads that once adorned inside
doorways in Haight Ashbury with sounds of The Mamas and the Papas blaring in the background. Thanks to television, its difficult
to forget the beaded belts of the 70s.
From Ancient Trade to Modern Computer Applications
Beads predate the mid-20th century by eons. Remember the abacus? Of course, you cant actually remember back 2000 years unless
you possess powers unknown to this author, but you can remember learning about the abacus in school. In Europe, Venetian glass
beads and German metal beads served as currency in trade as early as the 16th century. Beads also played a central role in Native
American jewelry.
Bohemia (aptly named) was the center of the European bead trade from as far back as the Middle Ages. Through the twists and
turns of history, bead making moved to Bavaria and now, has once again found its home in the Chezk Republic, in the Bohemia area,
home of Swarovski Austrian crystals.
In 1990, Native American traditional beadwork intersected with computer sciences. Several college campuses introduced a pilot
program in which beadwork shaped the foundation for courses AutoCad and other design program courses for Native American
students. The popularity and applicability of these courses continues today.
Modern Beads
Now that weve strolled down memory lane and taken a quick look at vintage beads, beads no longer in production, where do beads
fit into todays jewelry scene? Theyre everywhere you look from casual chokers and necklaces to fine Swarovski Austrian crystal
designs.
Think beyond a single strand of beads. Start by thinking of a single strand of beads from which a pendant dangles. From there,
think pinsyes, pins adorned with beads, beaded bracelets, barrettes, earrings, etc. In fact, think beyond jewelry to purses and
other accessories. If you look closely at your surroundings, youll find beads everywhere.
The Many Faces of Beads
Another thing that you might rethink is the composition and shape of beads. Todays beads come in a myriad of shapes and
materials, with Austrian crystal topping the list. Todays look du jour of transparent, translucent and iridescent beads don the
bodies of the rich and famous along with everyday mortals. Venetian glass beads often encapsulate swirls within the beads for a
unique, timeless quality.
The latest in fashion trends includes little beaded silk purses. While you wouldnt want to cover yourself in head-to-toe beads
unless youre auditioning for a singing gig in Nashville, a silk beaded purse with a complementary beaded necklace turns an
ordinary evening outfit into a walking work of art.
Open your eyes and look for one-of-a-kind, handmade beaded jewelry. Its everywhere, and its calling your name.
About The Author
M J Plaster is a successful author who provides information on shopping online for http://www.jewelry-4-u.net/beads.htm and http://www.jewelry-4-u.net/ in general. M J Plaster has been a commercial freelance writer
for almost two decades, most recently specializing in home and garden, the low-carb lifestyle, investing, and anything that
defines la dolce vita.
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Hopefully the sections above have contributed to your understanding of beading. Now might be a good time to write down the
main points. The act of putting it down on paper will help you remember what's important.
Of course, it's impossible to put everything into just one article. Even if you don't know everything about beading, you've
done something worthwhile: you've expanded your knowledge.
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