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Daily Wire Tip Aug. 13: Heishi Beads

By on August 12, 2010
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Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip
August 13, 2010

Question:

Can you explain exactly what the bead type heishi is?

-Phyllis in Carlisle, Pennsylvania

Answer:

The word heishi is Native American in origin, and means shell necklace. Using beads made of shell pieces that have been hand-shaped (usually in a cylindrical or drum shape) creates a genuine heishi necklace. Modern suppliers use this term to describe about any bead that has the heishi shape (including shell beads).

For an interesting article that details genuine heishi, I invite you to read What You Need to Know About Native American Heishi Jewelry.

Answer contributed by Dale “Cougar” Armstrong

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4 Comments

  1. avatar

    Cathy Sizer

    August 13, 2010 at 10:37 am

    Good Morning,
    Love the questions and answers.

    I wanted to tell you that I have received your DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO SELLING JEWELRY and even though I am not a total novice, I found your publication to be a great value!! I am a visual learner so seeing you all in action was the best for me. I have my first craft show coming up and feel much more prepared and professional than I would have otherwise.

    Thank you. I would highly recommend this set to anyone in the business.

    Sincerely,

    Cathy Sizer of Rings of Desire (handmade jewelry – not body piercing!!!)

    • avatar

      dalecgr

      August 13, 2010 at 9:06 pm

      Thanks so much Cathy! Yes, what you see on those DVDs really is the true ‘us’, your Wire Faculty team. I am so pleased to hear how much ‘The Definitive Guide’ has already helped you in such a good way : )

  2. avatar

    Boni

    October 4, 2011 at 10:33 am

    I am so inspired by this site! It answers so many questions I’ve asked as a beginner at wired jewellry. Thank you! I live in a remote area of North ON. and have limited access to workshops and suppliers. This site answers those needs. Thank you!
    Boni

    • avatar

      dalecgr

      October 4, 2011 at 2:30 pm

      Hi Boni, Nice to hear from you! Happy to be able to help :)