Bead jewelry making has been embedded in many diverse cultures and countries across the sands of time. Everything from the Rosary Beads of Christianity, to the Peyote Stitch of Native Americans, beads have been in most every society.
Beaded jewelry has enjoyed many uses - from decoration, ceremony and currency to religion. Modern beaded jewelry borrows traditions from Europe, the Far East, the Americas, Africa and Prehistoric times to create exotic and attractive designs. You can see these influences in the types of beads currently produced.