All About Waist Beads – History, Meaning & Styles

Welcome to your Waist Bead Journey!

What is a Waist Bead? 

A traditional African waist bead is a beaded body jewelry intentionally worn around a woman's waist or stomach area. Waist beads are made from a single or multiple strands of various beads such as glass, metal, crystals and wood or seed beads. They can be made with clasps and other types of finisher for easy removal (barrel clasp, lobster claw, and spring rings).

Waist beads have been around throughout the region of African for centuries. They are worn in many cultures and used in traditional practices to affirm a woman's sense of being and celebrate womanhood.

Ready to experience the beauty and meaning of waist beads for yourself? Explore our handcrafted tie-on waist bead collection featuring authentic gemstones and vibrant colors.

Why wear waist beads? 

Waist beads can be used for fashion purposes or traditional such as adornments,  rites of passage, fertility, marriage, pregnancy(monitor rise or drop of beads to access a womb and trimester), marriage, and baby naming ceremonies. More modern reasons include weight management,  protection, affirmations in reaching or celebrating milestones and achievements.

From vibrant citrus tones like our Citrus Bloom and Orange Crush styles, to rich earth tones like Rich Brown Glow, each piece tells its own story.

Who can wear them?

Women of all ages, cultures, and body types. Wear with intention as it is sacred to many African cultures.

African Waist Bead Symbolism

A waist bead is a beaded accessory tied around a woman's waist. It symbolizes femininity, sensuality and spiritual well-being. 

Other words used

African waist beads, womb beads, waist beads, beaded beads, belly beads, belly “chain”, beaded jewelry, beads for the waist. 

Celebrate your femininity and connect with this beautiful tradition. Shop our complete collection of tie-on waist beads and find the perfect piece that speaks to your essence✨