Silver Shell Glass: A History of Native American Beadwork

The use of beads for a variety of purposes has been documented in cultures around the world and dates back to ancient times. Examples have been found in archaeological excavations dating as early as 100,000 years ago. Beadwork in North America is relatively young, dating to approximately 13,000 years ago. 

Silver Shell Glass examines the way beads were made – evolving from being made of naturally occurring materials to metals and glass, as well as how they were used by Native Americans.The exhibition features a number of rarely seen items from the State Museum’s extensive collection, including examples of beadwork on a child’s moccasin and cradleboard, clothing, necklaces, a game and a man’s war headdress.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website