Purpose of Beads and Stones

Beads and stones have been used by humans for various purposes since prehistoric times. Most importantly they have been worn for adornment. Early on, they were strung on reeds or any string-like material to form necklaces and bracelets. Later they were set in metal jewelry when precious metals became available. In some cultures, beads and stones worn in jewelry have been a symbol of status.

Various beads and stones were assigned value in prehistoric and ancient times which allowed them to be used as the first currency used in trade. This has continued to varying degrees in various cultures. With advancement in the production of glass beads in Venice and later in other parts of Europe, glass beads became important in trade with Africa and the New World. Lampwork glass beads are still valued depending on their beauty and quality. Precious and semi-precious stones today still have special value all over the world according to their beauty and rarity.

Some people believe that certain stones have mystical qualities and that they can ward off evil. This concept is of course not shared by everyone.

Strings of beads are used in certain Christian, Moslem, and Hindu sects in prayer.

Beautiful lampwork glass beads and jewelry featuring glass beads and semi-precious stones are presented at Beadshaper

Purpose of Art

The most obvious purpose of art is for the enjoyment of the observer (viewer or listener). Art can bring forth emotions that prose or simple function might not. Art presents beauty. However what is beautiful to one person, might not be beautiful to another. Sometimes the line between beauty and ugliness can be fuzzy. Art since early times has been a vehicle for expressing religious ideas, but can also be used for expressing social or any kind of ideas. Art can be used to make functional articles also beautiful. Art has been used to commemorate events, great or personal (for example a family photograph). Jewelry is a form of art which enhances the beauty and self image of the person wearing it.
To see the Beadshaper's artistic creations see http://www.beadshaper.com

Gift Giving

We are now in the holiday season when gift giving is in vogue. People have been giving gifts since the beginning of civilization and even earlier. Gifts can be given by the giver to show respect for the receiver. In an ancient Sumerian story, "The Death of Urnamma", the King who has died gives gifts to the gods of the Underworld to appease them and make his future more pleasant. The concept of giving a gift as a show of love has been popular since ancient times. In the story of "Faust", Faust seduces Margarita by giving her jewels. Giving gifts can be an expression of friendship. Gifts can be given for philanthropy. Gift giving can raise the status of the gift giver in some cultures. Giving gifts can sometimes be done simply because it is expected.
You can find some fantastic jewelry gifts handcrafted by the Beadshaper for your friends, relatives, or special person at http://www.beadshaper.com