When I traveled to South Africa recently, I was fascinated to learn it has a myriad of ethnic groups and eleven official languages. The Zulu are the largest ethnic group in South Africa and they produce some of my favorite bead work. I picked up the items pictured above trolling markets and funky little shops.
To learn more about the lore and language of Zulu beadwork, press Here. To learn more about Zulu beadwork in general, press Here.
One of my favorite beadwork authors, Diane Fitzgerald, has a forthcoming book from Interweave Press entitled Zulu Inspired Beadwork.
To learn more about the rich history and culture of the Zulu, press Here.
Ornamento 
I love the photo, especially the flower keychain! What a happy piece of beadwork!
I just wanted to let you know that I just interviewed Diane Fitzgerald briefly about her book, Zulu Inspired Beadwork. The full interview is here:
http://www.beadingdaily.com/posts/people_events/zulu_beadwork_252-1.html
I amvery muchinterested in training my son the bead work. Could you help me.
I recommend you look at Diane Fittgerald’s book, Zulu Inspired Beadwork.
Just to let you know that you are misrepresenting the tortoise and flower as Zulu Beadwork. The bangles are indeed inspired by Zulu ethnic traditional beadwork which utilises bead and thread work. The bead and wire work however, originates from Zimbabwe. Currently, most bead and wire crafters are men, many of whom are Zimbabwean.(unlike the Zulu feminine dominated craftwork)
We at AFRICAN HOME fair trade South African craft initiative are currently updating our website:www.africanhome.co.za where you can find out more background information about various craft forms and crafters of Southern Africa
Just to let you know, the word “misrepresent” has a negative connotation that is not helpful in this context. If there was any “misrepresenting” it was the person who sold me the beadwork in South Africa. And I would bet that she was misinformed and not trying to cheat me.
At the same time, I appreciate your information on the bead and wire work. I think that anyone who reads these comments will find it helpful as well. And thanks for including your web site. I will be sure to take a look.
i have one of these keyrings which is a butterfly and i have to say i am very happy with it , it beautiful.
I am told that this type of beadwork comes from Zimbabwe.