Gemstone Gem Beads

History of Handcrafted Beaded Jewelry

You might feel that the history of handcrafted beaded jewelry cannot possibly be very interesting, but in fact, it is quite intriguing to learn where this part of culture began.  Some say that the beginnings of beaded jewelry began more than 70,000 years ago when man found the beads and gems and thought it was incredibly beautiful.  Beaded jewelry has been used in many ways.  One way is simply for beauty.  Another is for value.  Some would trade and buy with beaded jewelry or beads.  And some cultures even used them as talisman.  So how was beaded jewelry initially created?  Let’s take a look.

Although a man or a woman living in those times would not possibly have any practical use for them; however, they could not carry them around without modern day bags or carrying devices, nor did they have pockets.  So, as legend tells us, they attached the gemstones or beads to leather straps and wore them around their neck to create the first handcrafted beaded jewelry.  Over time, handcrafted beaded jewelry started to become a status symbol.  Those with power and wealth were the ones who had beaded jewelry.  Beads even have been used as an item of value for which trade could be made.  

Handcrafted beaded jewelry has been made out of many types of beads.  Beads have been known to be made out of glass, bone, porcelain, shells, paper, clay, metals, gemstones, ivory, and even wood.    Bead craftsman often held the trade secrets in confidence.  They were expected to keep the bead-making skills a secret.  Some of them even risked themselves if they failed to keep the information to themselves.  Mass production of beads didn’t even begin until the 1800s when glass beading became widely available.  It was at this time that Swarovski created their process for making their special beads which are still in high demand today.  Even today, the secrets of how their beads are made are kept secret.

Different parts of the world created different types of handcrafted beaded jewelry.  Central and South America are known for their wampum and quill creations, while Native American beadwork usually included a lot of turquoise and silver.  Bead making in France began as early as 38,000 BC!  Worry beads, Filigree, and highly decorated ceramic beads originated in Greece, while Italy specialized in the Murano glass beads.  There are dozens of other countries not yet discussed here, but beaded jewelry has a rich and vast history that is incredibly interesting.  Suffice it to say that there is a rich cultural tradition with wearing beaded jewelry.

Sources:
History of Beaded Jewelry
Gemstone History and Beliefs

About the Author

At SWCreations you will find history and facts relating to beads, gemstones, birthstones, fashion, and handcrafted jewelry.

Drilling Gemstone Beads: Vardhaman Gems

Labradorite Gemstone Freeform Pendant With Silver Plated Bail 46MM (1) $5.25 Beautiful Hand-polished Labradorite Freeform Shaped Pendant Complete With Silver Plated Copper Bail Nickel And Lead Free 46mm x 34mm 1 PendantAbsolutely stunning, natural Labradorite. A slate grey stone that, with a simple twist to the light, glows with flash in colors of pink, peach, gold, green and blue. Each stone has been stabilized, meaning it’s coated in a thin coat of resin to prevent chips…

Gemstone Bead Fits Pandora Purple Kiwi Jasper 13.5mm (1) $1.99 Genuine Gemstone Pandora BeadPurple Kiwi Jasper Silver Tone Metal Grommets Unique Kiwi Jasper in Purple with Black marks. These beads are dyed to give them a deep purple color. Large hole beads are rounded and polished to a nice shine.The hole is lined with silver plated base metal, grommet style. This protects the stone from any friction that occurs with wear. Center is not threaded, it will…

Blue Peruvian Opal Disc Gem Beads ~9mm 14 $18.97 Peruvian Opal disc shape beads; average 9mm diameter, ,4mm thick; smooth cut, about 40 beads per 14″ strand;…

Garnet Gemstone Quality Gem Cut Oval Briolette Beads 7×5mm (10) $8.19 Beautiful Gemstone Quality Garnet Oval Briolettes 10 Beads

Gemstone Tray Insert 36 Gem Jars Coins Beads Display $15.5 New 36 Gem Jar Gemstone Tray Insert For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new white gem jar tray insert that contains removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. This tray is also stackable. Each gem jar comes with a insert pad inside and lid. This case has 36 gem jars. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 1/2 (38 mm). The case measures approximately 14 1/4 x 7 3/4 x 3/4 (362 x 198 x 19 mm).

Labradorite Gemstone Quality Gem Cut Oval Briolette Beads 7.5×6mm (10) $11.09 Beautiful Gemstone Quality. Labradorite Oval Briolettes. 10 Beads Beautiful little high quality Labradorite briolettes. Natural color – not heat treated. Cool, earthy grey with flashes of blue, green, and peach. Each bead has a flat surface with faceted edges on one side. Back is gem-faceted to a point, giving each stone great depth. Dimensions: Approximately 7.5-8mm long, 5.5-6mm wide, 3-4mm thick at thickest point. Holes are small. Bead size may vary by up to half a millimeter from size stated. Hole is drilled side to side along top, as in photo. Hole is approximately 2mm from top of bead. Recommended stringing materials:.014 or finer Soft Flex or Soft Touch. If wire wrapping, use 26 gauge wire. Quantity: 10 Beads.

Gemstone Beads Chips One Size Fits All Stretch Bracelet $6.99 Beautifully crafted Multi Gemstone Beads and Chips stretchable Bracelet. Great price and quality. Your chance to grab this expensive piece for a fraction of price. Buy with 100% confidence. Thanks for Shopping at Gem Avenue.

Gem Jars Gemstone 25 Storage White Pad Showcase Display $12.5 New Gem Jars Gemstone Insert For Jewelry Displays, Showcases & Countertops. This is a new white gemstone insert. This insert contains 25 removable clear plastic round jars. This will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a white insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). This display pad measures approximately 7 3/4 x 7 x 3/4 (196 x 178 x 19 mm).

Gem Jars Gemstone Insert White Pad Jewelry Display $7.99 New Gem Jars Gemstone Display For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new white gemstone display tray inserts. This insert contains 15 removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a white insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). This insert measures approximately 7 3/4 x 4 1/4 x 3/4 (197 x 108 x 19 mm).

Gem Jars Gemstone Insert Black Pad Jewelry Display $11.5 New Gem Jars Gemstone Insert For Jewelry Displays, Showcases & Countertops. This is a new gemstone insert. This insert contains 25 removable clear plastic round jars. This will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a black insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). This display pad measures approximately 7 3/4 x 7 x 3/4 (196 x 178 x 19 mm).

Gem Jars Gemstone Display Storage 15 Parts Showcase $10.99 New Gem Jars Gemstone Display For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new gemstone display tray inserts. This insert contains 15 removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a black insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). This insert measures approximately 7 3/4 x 4 1/4 x 3/4 (197 x 108 x 19 mm).

Gem Jar Tray Insert Gemstone Display Pocket Watch $15.5 New 36 Gem Jar Gemstone Tray Insert For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new gem jar tray insert that contains removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. This tray is also stackable. Each gem jar comes with a insert pad inside and lid. This case has 36 gem jars. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 1/2 (38 mm). The case measures approximately 14 3/4 x 8 1/4 x 1 (37 cm x 209 x 25 mm).

24 Black Foam Gem Jars Gemstone Storage Insert Display $15.5 New 24 Gem Jar Gemstone Tray Insert For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new gem jar tray insert that contains removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. This tray is also stackable. Each gem jar comes with a insert pad inside and lid. This case has 24 gem jars. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 1/2 (38 mm). The case measures approximately 14 1/4 x 7 3/4 x 3/4 (36.2 cm x 198 mm x 18 mm).

16 Gem Jars Gemstone Tray Showcase Travel Display White $11.99 New Gem Jar Insert Pad For Jewelry Displays & Countertops. This is a new white gemstone jar insert. This insert contains 16 removable clear plastic round jars. This will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a white insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 3/8 (35 mm). This display pad measures approximately 7 3/4 x 7 x 3/4 (196 x 178 x 19 mm).

Gem Jar Tray Insert Gemstone Display Clock Parts Unit $15.99 New Gem Jar Tray Insert For Jewelry Displays & Countertops. This is a new gemstone insert that contains 50 removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a black insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 1/16 (27 mm). The insert measure approximately 14 1/4 x 7 3/4 x 3/4 (36 cm x 196 x 19 mm).

16 Gem Jars Gemstone Tray Showcase Travel Display Black $11.99 New Gem Jar Insert Pad For Jewelry Displays & Countertops. This is a new black gemstone jar insert. This insert contains 16 removable clear plastic round jars. This will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a black insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 3/8 (35 mm). This display pad measures approximately 7 3/4 x 7 x 3/4 (196 x 178 x 19 mm).

2 Gem Jars Gemstone Inserts White Pad Jewelry Display $13.5 2 New Gem Jars Gemstone Display For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new set of 2 white gemstone display tray inserts. This insert contains 15 removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a white insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). Each insert measures approximately 7 3/4 x 4 1/4 x 3/4 (197 x 108 x 19 mm).

2 Gem Jars Gemstone Displays Storage Showcase Black $12.5 2 New Gem Jars Gemstone Display For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new set of 2 gemstone display tray inserts. This insert contains 15 removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a black insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). Each insert measures approximately 7 3/4 x 4 1/4 x 3/4 (197 x 108 x 19 mm).

3 Gem Jars Gemstone Inserts White Pad Jewelry Display $18.5 3 New Gem Jars Gemstone Display For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new set of 3 white gemstone display tray inserts. This insert contains 15 removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a white insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). Each insert measures approximately 7 3/4 x 4 1/4 x 3/4 (197 x 108 x 19 mm).

Black Onyx Flat Beads Gemstone Stretch Bracelet for all $7.99 Beautifully crafted Black Onyx Flat Beads Gemstone Stretchable Bracelet one size fits for all. Great price and quality. Your chance to grab this expensive piece for a fraction of price. Buy with 100% confidence. Thanks for Shopping at Gem Avenue.

48 Gem Jars Gemstone Tray Showcase Travel Display Black $30.5 3 New Gem Jar Insert Pads For Jewelry Displays & Countertops. This is a new set of 3 black gemstone jar inserts. Each insert contains 16 removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a black insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 3/8 (35 mm). Each display pad measures approximately 7 3/4 x 7 x 3/4 (196 x 178 x 19 mm).

48 Gem Jars Gemstone Tray Showcase Travel Display White $30.5 3 New Gem Jar Insert Pads For Jewelry Displays & Countertops. This is a new set of 3 white gemstone jar inserts. Each insert contains 16 removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a white insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 3/8 (35 mm). Each display pad measures approximately 7 3/4 x 7 x 3/4 (196 x 178 x 19 mm).

72 Gem Jars Gemstone Tray White Showcase Travel Display $38.5 3 New Gem Jar Tray Inserts For Jewelry Displays, Showcases & Countertops. This is a new set of 3 white foam gem jar insert that contain removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with an insert pad inside and lid. Each case has 24 gem jars. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 1/2 (38 mm). Each insert measures approximately 14 1/4 x 7 3/4 x 3/4 (36.2 cm x 198 mm x 18 mm).

24 Gem Jars Gemstone Tray White Showcase Travel Display $15.5 New Gem Jar Tray Insert For Jewelry Displays, Showcases & Countertops. This is a new white foam gem jar case that contains removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with an insert pad inside and lid. This case has 24 gem jars. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 1/2 (38 mm). The insert measures approximately 14 1/4 x 7 3/4 x 3/4 (36.2 cm x 198 mm x 18 mm).

Gem Jar Tray Insert Gemstone Display Watch Parts Unit $15.99 New Gem Jar Tray Insert For Jewelry Displays, Showcases & Countertops. This is a new gem jar insert that contains removable clear plastic round jars. These jars will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a insert pad inside and lid. Has 50 gem jars. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). The cases measure approximately 14 1/4 x 7 3/4 x 3/4 (36.2 cm x 198 mm x 18 mm).

Making Jewelry With Gemstone Beads $19.95 Learn to create beautiful gemstone jewelery with this dazzling collection of over 100 projects, ranging from eye-catching earrings and accessories to exquisite necklaces and bracelets. This beautiful book offers an impressive range of 28 beautiful semi-precious stones (including birthstones) and a glimpse into the fascinating history and mythical properties behind them. Projects range from the simplest stringing to more detailed beadwork to cater for all levels of ability. Clear artworks, beautiful photographs and easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions ensure flawless results.

Gemstone and Sterling Silver Drop Earrings $172 Scintillating cut gem droplets in an array of hues are strung together on multiple silver mesh strands with gold-tone beads and signature discs for a stunning mix of texture and color by Daco Milano. Gift box included, Made in Italy.

Black Onyx Gemstone One Size Fits All Stretch Bracelet $8.99 Beautifully crafted Black Onyx beads and Stands Gemstone stretchable Bracelet. Great price and quality. Your chance to grab this expensive piece for a fraction of price. Buy with 100% confidence. Thanks for Shopping at Gem Avenue.

Gem Tree Sculptures: A Guide to Creating Your Own Gem Tree $16.27 Gemstone Wire Tree Sculptures is a guide to help create and design gem trees as another form of the lapidary arts. Gem, mineral and bead enthusiasts as well as those who love craft projects, now have the opportunity to learn this lost art form and how it is used as a creative outlet. All instructions are designed with the beginner in mind and include photos and diagrams to help navigate through the steps. This is a great hobby for creating inexpensive gifts for family and friends that will delight and amaze them. Learn how the trees can be personalized for that special person by using gemstones, beads and charms. As a bonus, a chapter has been included on how this hobby can become a positive influence on your personal development and help manage your stress. One of Dana’’s students once commented that she didn”t realize that just the simple act of twisting gems on wire could be so relaxing and take your mind off other worries.

Black Garnet Gemstone Quality Cut Oval Briolette Beads 7×5mm (10) $9.59 Beautiful Gemstone Quality Black Garnet Oval Briolettes 10 Beads

Handmade Blue Chalcedony Bracelet With Faceted Silver Beads $37.99 * Accessorize in style with the divine beauty of this elegant blue gemstone and silver bracelet * This fashionable single-strand bracelet features sky blue chalcedony beads expertly faceted and polished for a glossy finish * Textured silver spacing beads between each gem help prevent wear and tear while adding their own magical sparkle * Secure, antiqued silver toggle clasp for easy closure * Bracelet measures 8.5 inches long

Handmade Black Chalcedony Bracelet With Faceted Silver Beads $37.99 * Ensconce your wrist in a mystical midnight hue when you wear this enchanting gemstone and silver seed bead bracelet * Bracelet is hand-crafted from a single strand of chalcedony beads, expertly faceted to sparkle in ambient light * Textured silver spacing beads between each gem help prevent wear and tear while adding their own magical sparkle * Secure, antiqued silver toggle clasp makes this bracelet easy to wear and remove * Bracelet measures 8.5 inches long

Onyx Gemstone Swarovski Crystal Silver Necklace 16 Inch $46.99 Gorgeous Necklace Crafted with Authentic Swarovski Crystals and Genuine Onyx Gemstone beads Comes with Sterling Silver Secure Lobster Claw Clasp. We carry Bracelets and Earrings in the same pattern.This is a fabulous creation. Your chance to grab one now. Buy now and grab this opportunity to secure one. Thanks for shopping at Gem Avenue.

Onyx Gemstone Swarovski Crystal Silver Necklace 20 Inch $50.99 Gorgeous Necklace Crafted with Authentic Swarovski Crystals and Genuine Onyx Gemstone beads Comes with Sterling Silver Secure Lobster Claw Clasp. We carry Bracelets and Earrings in the same pattern.This is a fabulous creation. Your chance to grab one now. Buy now and grab this opportunity to secure one. Thanks for shopping at Gem Avenue.

Onyx Gemstone Swarovski Crystal Silver Necklace 24 Inch $59.99 Gorgeous Necklace Crafted with Authentic Swarovski Crystals and Genuine Onyx Gemstone beads Comes with Sterling Silver Secure Lobster Claw Clasp. We carry Bracelets and Earrings in the same pattern.This is a fabulous creation. Your chance to grab one now. Buy now and grab this opportunity to secure one. Thanks for shopping at Gem Avenue.

Onyx Gemstone Swarovski Crystal Silver Necklace 18 Inch $46.99 Gorgeous Necklace Crafted with Authentic Swarovski Crystals and Genuine Onyx Gemstone beads Comes with Sterling Silver Secure Lobster Claw Clasp. We carry Bracelets and Earrings in the same pattern.This is a fabulous creation. Your chance to grab one now. Buy now and grab this opportunity to secure one. Thanks for shopping at Gem Avenue.

Onyx Gemstone Swarovski Crystal Silver Necklace 22 Inch $55.99 Gorgeous Necklace Crafted with Authentic Swarovski Crystals and Genuine Onyx Gemstone beads Comes with Sterling Silver Secure Lobster Claw Clasp. We carry Bracelets and Earrings in the same pattern.This is a fabulous creation. Your chance to grab one now. Buy now and grab this opportunity to secure one. Thanks for shopping at Gem Avenue.

Garnet Gemstone Flat Oval Beads 7.5mm x 6mm /14 In. Strand $7.29 Flat Oval Garnet Gemstone Beads 7.5mm x 6MM 14 inch Strand

3 Gem Stone Jars Display Body Jewelry Storage Tray Case $42.5 3 New Gem Jar Gemstone Inserts & Display Trays For Jewelry Displays, Showcases & Countertops. 3 Gem Jar Inserts. This is a new set of 3 gemstone inserts. Each insert contains 25 removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a white insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). Each display pad measures approximately 7 3/4 x 7 x 3/4 (196 x 178 x 19 mm). 3 Display Trays. This is a new set of 3 black plastic display trays. They will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. These trays are stackable. Each measures approximately 8 1/4 x 7 1/4 x 1 (209 x 184 x 25 mm).

2 25pc Black Foam Gem Stone Coin Storage Display Jars $22.5 2 New Gem Jars Gemstone Inserts For Jewelry Displays, Showcases & Countertops. This is a new set of 2 gemstone inserts. This insert contains 25 removable clear plastic round jars. This will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. Each gem jar comes with a black insert pad inside and lid. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). Each display pad measures approximately 7 3/4 x 7 x 3/4 (196 x 178 x 19 mm).

50 Gem Jars White Foam Showcase Stackable Display Tray $27.5 New Gemstone Display Tray & Insert For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new gemstone display tray and insert that contains removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. The trays are also stackable. Each gem jar comes with a insert pad inside and lid. Each insert has 50 gem jars. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). The case measures approximately 14 3/4 x 8 1/4 x 1 (37 cm x 209 x 25 mm).

150 Gem Jars White Foam Showcase Stackable Display Tray $53.99 3 New Gemstone Display Trays & Inserts For Jewelry Showcases & Countertops. This is a new set of 3 gemstone display trays and inserts that contains removable clear plastic round jars. These will hold all of your loose stones, beads and coins. The trays are also stackable. Each gem jar comes with a insert pad inside and lid. Each insert has 50 gem jars. The inside diameter of each gem jar measures approximately 1 (25 mm). Each case measures approximately 14 3/4 x 8 1/4 x 1 (37 cm x 209 x 25 mm).

$15.5 Gemstone Tray Insert 36 Gem Jars Coins Beads Display

$11.09 Labradorite Gemstone Quality Gem Cut Oval Briolette Beads 7.5×6mm (10)