Native American Indians readily accepted glass trade beads from European explorers like Christopher Columbus in exchange for goods. They used the beads to decorate their clothes and baskets as well as for trading and personal adornment. Traditionally, beads were made from materials found in nature and served purposes of protection, beauty, and status. Glass trade beads later became widely used in exchanges between Native Americans and settlers.

1. Trade beads

2. • The first recorded case of use of Trade beads in America is by Christopher
Columbus who wrote in his log on October 12, 1492 that he had given San
Salvador natives glass trade beads to impress them. Native American
Indians had used beads in the past and so they readily accepted trade
beads from the European in exchange for fur, horse, and other items.
Native American Indians used these beads to decorate their clothes and
their baskets, to trade within themselves, and to beautify themselves.
•

3. The earliest known beads were made from materials such as bone, teeth,
ivory, seeds, wood, stone, and resins from a variety of insects and plants.
The purpose of the first beads worn is believed to have been protection
against uncontrollable events such as harsh weather, to enhance beauty,
and as a show of status in the society.

4. Ship wreak beads! Authentic Lewis
and Clark beads

5. Amber Mambo trade beads

7. Goulimine beads or Love Beads, better known
as millefiori or simply as mosaic beads.

8. Glass trade beads

10. The History of Trade Beads
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kw2stRml
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