Description

The Maasai, an ethnic group of Nilotic origin, inhabit central and southern Kenya, as well as certain areas in Northern Tanzania. Women in Maasai communities have a long-standing tradition of beadworking, creating and wearing jewelry as a means of expressing personal identity within the tribe. The choice of beads and jewelry worn can convey information about age and social status. Elders and individuals of high social standing often wear intricate and vibrant pieces. Unmarried Maasai girls commonly adorn large beaded disks around their necks, while married women frequently wear long blue necklaces to signify their marital status.