beautiful beads

Black and white stand in a beautiful and bold contrast in this unique beaded stretch bracelet presented by Rita Addo Zakour. Ghanaian artisans melt recycled plastic drinking bottles, dye the liquid, and pour it into molds to create each individual bead.

Finely crafted diamonds combine black and white. Superimposed upon one another, they form a mandala. Scintillating seed beads cascade from three corners in a beautiful and original necklace. Diamond-shaped talismans known as the "eyes of God" refer to the four cardinal points in Huichol belief and direct one to the correct path of life. Meticulously handcrafted by artisans of Mexico's Huichol Center for Cultural Survival and Traditional Arts, this design showcases the pendant on a double strand of black and white beads.

Black and white may be polar opposite colors, but the blending of the two creates a pleasing harmonious duality, like yin and yang. This beaded stretch bracelet created by Thai artisan Tipa is evidence of this beautiful harmony. Spheres of midnight black onyx and stark white ceramic are stacked with hematite bead spacers in a brilliant array. The white ceramic beads feature a bamboo motif for even more detail. A sterling silver lotus charm dangles from the beaded strand.

Stylish and beautiful, this bracelet is designed by Ghana's Victoria Agyepomaa. She draws inspiration from the steadfastness of motherhood, and names her design Maame, meaning "mother" in the Akan language. Glass and recycled beads are carefully strung upon elastic cord. The contrast of black and white will coordinate with most outfits.

Four loyal dog friends romp and play together in this beautiful set of ornaments designed by Renu Rani. Handcrafted from woolen felt with shining eyes made from glass beads, the ornaments hang from wool yarn and arrive in a polyester pouch.