Editing Zulu people (section)

== Beadwork ==

=== History of beadwork ===
The creation of beadwork dates back to the times of war for the Zulu people. This particular form of beadwork was known as ''iziqu'', medallions of war.<ref name="Derwent-1998"/> Often worn as a necklace, the beads were displayed in a criss-cross formation across the shoulders. This assemblage of beads by the warriors represented a symbol of bravery.<ref name="Derwent-1998"/> Before the use of glass was apparent to the Zulu, beadwork was derived from wood, seeds and berries.<ref name="Derwent-1998"/> It was not until the arrival of Europeans that glass became a trade material with the Portuguese, which soon became abundantly available to the Zulu.<ref name="Derwent-1998"/>

=== Purpose of beadwork===
Beadwork is a form of communication for the Zulu people. Typically when one is wearing multiple beads, it is a sign of wealth. The more beads one is wearing, the wealthier they are perceived.<ref name="Boram-Hayes-2005">{{Cite journal|last=Boram-Hayes |first=Carol |date=Summer 2005|title=African Arts|journal=Borders of Beads: Questions of Identity in the Beadwork of the Zulu-Speaking People |volume=38 |issue=2 |pages=38–49+92–93|jstor=3338083}}</ref> The beads have the potential to convey information about a person's age, gender and marital status. The design of the beads often conveys a particular message. However, one must know the context of their use to read the message correctly.<ref name="preston-1994"/> Depending on the area in which the beadwork was made, some designs can depict different messages compared to other areas. A message could be embedded into the colours and structure of the beads or could be strictly for decorative purposes.<ref name="preston-1994"/> Beadwork can be worn in everyday use but is often worn during important occasions such as weddings, or ceremonies. For example, beadwork is featured during the coming of age for a young girl or worn during dances.<ref name="preston-1994"/> The beaded elements complement the costumes worn by the Zulu people to bring out a sense of finery or prestige.<ref name="preston-1994"/>

=== Apparel ===
[[File:National_Museum_of_Ethnology,_Osaka_-_Love_letter_made_of_beads_-_Zulu_people_in_South_Africa_-_Collected_in_1996.jpg|thumb|Zulu beadwork necklace]]
Beadwork is worn by all men, women, and children at any age. Depending on which stage of life an individual is in, the beadwork indicates different meanings. Beadwork is predominantly worn when young Zulu people are courting or in search of love affairs.<ref name="preston-1994"/> The wearing of decorative beadwork can act as an attempt to grab the attention of someone of the opposite sex.<ref name="preston-1994"/> Also, the gifting of beadwork is a way of communicating interest with lovers.<ref name="preston-1994"/> During the transition from single to married women, beadwork is shown through a beaded cloth apron worn over a pleated leather skirt.<ref name="Boram-Hayes-2005"/> As for older or mature women, beadwork is displayed in detailed headdresses and cowhide skirts that extend past the knee. These long skirts are also seen on unmarried women and young marriageable-age girls.<ref name="preston-1994"/> Men are more conservative when wearing beadwork.<ref name="preston-1994"/> However, when a young boy is seen wearing multiple necklaces, it is a sign that he is highly interested in these gifts from various girls. The more gifts he wears, the higher the prestige he obtains.<ref name="Boram-Hayes-2005" />
[[File:COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Kralen halssieraad voor jonge Zulu vrouwen 'Liefdesbrief' TMnr 3279-45.jpg|thumb|Zulu beadwork necklace.]]

=== Colours of beads ===
Various forms of beadwork are found in different colour schemes. Typically, there are four different types of colour schemes:
* ''Isisshunka'' – white, light blue, dark green, pale yellow, pink, red, black. This colour scheme is believed to have no specific meaning.<ref name="preston-1994"/>
* ''Isithembu'' – light blue, grass green, bright yellow, red, black. This colour scheme derives from clans or clan areas.<ref name="preston-1994"/>
* ''Umzansi'' – white, dark blue, grass green, red. This colour scheme also derives from clans or clan areas.<ref name="preston-1994"/>
* ''Isinyolovane'' – a combination of any colours not consistent with other colour schemes. This colour scheme is often related to connotations of perfection and charm.<ref name="preston-1994"/>

The colours of beads might hold different meanings based on the area that they originated from. It is often that this can lead to misrepresentation or confusion when attempting to understand what the beadwork is communicating. One cannot assume that the colour system is standard across [[South Africa]]. In some areas, the colour green symbolises jealousy in a certain area, but in other areas it symbolises grass.<ref name="Derwent-1998" /> One must know the origin of the beadwork to interpret the message correctly.