Bone and Horn Jewelry

Artist: Esther was one of the first artists that we began working with. She is a gregarious Kikuyu woman whose business acumen has enabled her to grow her business from a one woman show to one where she is able to provide regular employment for her family, neighbors and community members.
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Country of Origin: Kenya

Color: Brown, white and black & white

Material: Most of these beads have been made in Kibera, one of Africa’s largest slums. While the situation is grim for the nearly million inhabitants - one fifth are HIV positive – it is also home to a successful cooperative. Kibera Bone Beads Group started in 1989 employs over 30 residents. In a country who’s estimated unemployment rate is 40%, the jobs created by making these beads can make life much easier for these individuals.

The natural color of the bone is a creamy white. The black and white beads are batiked. This process is similar to that used when making Ukrainian Easter eggs. Wax is applied in various patterns and then the bead is dipped in dye. Once the bead is dry, the wax is removed leaving a white pattern where the wax had been.

The brown beads are quickly dipped in dye and wiped off. More porous areas absorb more dye, giving the bead a textured almost wooden look.

The horn beads range in tone from a translucent almond to an opaque black.