Ostrich egg shell beads have been located in archaeological sites in Namibia dating back thousands of years. The design of items with beadwork changed as different types of beads became available. A photograph from 1951 shows a range of items worn by members of the Ju/’Hoansi community featuring beadwork. Headband, belt, tortoise shell, and strings of beads on kaross (Photo. PM2001.29.13702)

Question

Ostrich egg beads are widely used in Namibian communities. How do you use ostrich egg beads in your community and what significance do they carry?