With such a precise artisan quality and a abundant history; our strands of Nigerian beads are the breath of fresh air your jewelry designs have been looking for. Here are The Bead Chest we have a diverse selection of Nigerian beads! From our brass Nigerian beads and pendants to our hand carved Nigerian bone beads and from our glass to our wooden Nigerian beads your options are many! And with tones ranging from red to blue, black to white and with many multicolor bead strand options we know you’ll find the perfect Nigerian beads for your next jewelry collection.

The artisan culture and history of Nigerian jewelry making and artistry dates all the way back to 500 BC. From about 500 BC to AD 200 the Nok civilisation of Northern Nigeria flourished. From giant terracotta sculptures and statues to elaborate copper masks and brass jewelry, Nigerian artistry has been developing and influencing global culture since the dawn of time. In the middle ages Nigeria spanned all the way from western Nigeria to modern-day Togo. During that time the Benin Empire of southwestern Nigeria prospered from the 15th - 19th century. During that time Nigeria traded its artisan jewelry designs and supplies along trade routes reaching places like Portugal and the Middle East. The most famous ancient artifacts from Nigeria are the two royal Benin ivory masks. The ivory masks are seen by hundreds of thousands each year at the New York City Metropolitan Museum of Art and the British Museum of London. In modern day Nigeria the spirit of artistry and jewelry making is still alive and many of Nigeria’s current jewelry makers pull inspiration from the many styles of the ancient Benin Empire.

Modern day Nigerian jewelry making is well known for its use and implementation of many different types of materials in all shapes and sizes. Coconut shells and vintage glass are creatively used to make unique strands of beads. Everything from camel bone beads to white metal beads are used as accent pieces in intricate necklaces and bracelets. Nigerian jewelry makers are particularly skilled at making beautiful brass bead strands and highly detailed brass pendants.

It's a no brainer when it comes to working with the complex and spectacular styles of Nigerian beads. So please take your time browsing our selection of Nigerian beads and pendants! We know you’ll find the right beads for you and your creative designs.