Heishi stone beads have a long and rich history in ancient African culture. These small, disk-shaped beads were traditionally made from materials such as shells, stones, and bone, and were often used in jewelry and other decorative items. Heishi beads may be the oldest form of jewelry in North America. It predates the use of even metals in jewelry making, giving it a very interesting place in history. Heishi beads were particularly important in the cultures of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where they were used extensively in Native American jewelry. However, their use in African culture also dates back thousands of years.

In ancient African culture, heishi beads held great significance and were often used for spiritual and ceremonial purposes. The beads were believed to have protective properties and were often worn as amulets or talismans to ward off evil spirits and protect the wearer from harm. Additionally, heishi beads were used in many rituals and ceremonies, often as a way of invoking the blessings of the gods and spirits. For further information about how stones heal, read my blog post On Healing Stones & Crystals.

The significance of heishi beads in ancient African culture is still reflected in their use today in modern jewelry designs, such as the Liquid Gold Apothecs’ wearable art jewelry line, popularly known as the “Candy Stone” Collection. The collection features a variety of heishi stone beads which each have their own unique spiritual healing properties. Heishi stone beads are a powerful reminder of the rich cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs of ancient African culture.

The use of heishi beads in the Liquid Gold Apothecs’ collection is not just about their spiritual significance, but also about their aesthetic value. Heishi beads have a distinctive look and feel that is both timeless and contemporary, making them a popular choice for jewelry designers who want to create pieces that are both beautiful and meaningful. 

Saajida, the founder and designer of Liquid Gold Apothecs, has always had a deep passion for African culture and art. This passion has been a driving force behind her jewelry designs, as she strives to incorporate elements of African culture and history into each piece. Her designs are inspired by traditional African jewelry-making techniques, as well as the spiritual significance of various stones and materials used in ancient African culture.

Saajida is not only a talented jewelry designer but also a skilled instructor. She is currently an instructor for the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, where she facilitates a workshop on beaded jewelry inspired by the museum's African art collection. The workshop is designed to teach participants about the traditional techniques and cultural significance of beaded jewelry in African culture, while also allowing them to create their own unique pieces of jewelry specifically using an array of heishi stones and heishi-style beads.

Saajida's passion for African culture and art stems from her former career as a literature professor, where she specialized in African Diaspora studies. Through her research, teaching and connection to ancestry, she developed a deep appreciation for the richness and diversity of African culture. Her unique and beautiful creations are a testament to her deep passion and commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Africa.