Beaded Stories: Bringing Ancient Maasai Jewellery to the World

It is traditionally considered a social duty for women to learn how to make beaded jewellery in the Maasai in Arusha, Tanzania. The jewellery is not only a symbol of beauty, but is also seen as a cultural and social symbol. The skills are handed down through generations and each piece tells a unique story of its wearer, family and tribe.

There are 12 full time beaders at Sidai, who are empowering the women to grow and help financially sustain them with supplementary income that supports their semi-nomadic lifestyle. From grandmothers, to young girls, farmers to cooks, every beader is doing their bit to lead an empowered life.

Recycled materials
Recycled thread from old grain bags is used for beading, and pieces of recycled plastic from yogurt pots are used to hold the thread in place. The beads are threaded through these strings one by one.

Silversmithing
In Tanzania, using tools, fire and chemicals is widely considered men’s work. The female Maasai artisans have been trained in using new tools to cut metal in order to create new designs. Some of the techniques include filing, annealing, soldering, buffing and polishing.

Symbols of warriorhood and strength
The textures and patterns are inspired by the ceremonial attire and old artefacts owned by the Maasai community. The arrow symbolises the Maasai warriorhood, an integral part of their culture and identity.

The warrior technique
One of the traditional beading techniques used by the Maasai community is called the warrior technique. Traditionally, male warriors are adorned with beaded armour, which is gifted to them by the proud women in their lives. The Warrior Technique used at Sidai Designs preserves the traditional ways in which these pieces are made in the village, using thread salvaged from old grain sacks and boning cut from plastic canisters. The artisans use this same technique to create modern jewellery.

The power of the arrow
The symbol of arrow is a recurring element in Maasai jewellery. It pays homage to the Maasai Morans or warriors.

Necklaces
The shapes are inspired by the traditional Maasai jewellery items like collars (disk like necklaces) and earrings. The collars are mostly worn during special occasions. Women use a particular motion for their neck while dancing, to create a bounce-like movement for the collars.

Modern necklaces
Using the age old skills, Maasai women have carved a new path for themselves to create their own identity, preserve their heritage and become financially independent in the process.

Using the age old skills, Maasai women have carved a new path for themselves to create their own identity, preserve their heritage and become financially independent in the process.