History
Beads
The history of beads dates back as far as 40,000 years ago. Every society has had the basic technology to make beads from simple items such as plant materials. In contrast, the material from gems, semiprecious stones and bones required a labor intensive production process. Thousands of years prior to European contact, geographical location determined the kind of beads produced. In North America, gold, jade, blue-green stone turquoise and hand polished shells were used in the manufacturing of beads.
Prior to European contact, the use of porcupine quills by most woodland and plains culture was common. Dyed in various colours, quills were used on baskets, footwear and clothing. Other means of decoration on clothing came in the way of painting and animal fur arranged to create patterns.
Through the fur trade, glass beads had a significant effect on First Nation life. The availability of these small beads, along with the introduction of trade cloth and steel needles led to the decline of age-old decorative techniques, including quillwork. Beadwork rose to become the predominant craft. While some women followed traditional motifs from quillwork patterns in their beadwork, many others recreated patterns.
Woodlands people used floral patterns but would also incorporate the geometric designs of neighboring cultures.
Historically, beadworking was part of a social pastime where friends and family would bead together at the same table and discuss the issues of the day or just socialize. Today, it is considered a skilled, time consuming and still a very honored craft.
