For ages, locally made beads from either glass or clay have been a significant part of the Ghanaian woman’s life, especially for those from the southern sector.
At birth, children are adorned with beads around their wrists, knees, and waists because these beads are believed to provide spiritual protection.
From infancy, the girl child is made to wear waist beads as a way of differentiating her from the boy child and showcasing her femininity. This tradition helps usher her into real womanhood in society.
There are different types and shapes of beads worn by the Ghanaian woman. Beads can be worn on the neck, wrist, waist, ankle, and even the head at times.
The Ghanaian woman wears a particular type or shape of bead to suit specific occasions.
Above all, the waist bead is the most culturally significant bead. It is believed to help shape the hips of the adult Ghanaian woman into a curvy form, enhancing her attractiveness to men. Sometimes, it is also thought to arouse men’s sexual feelings during lovemaking.