The popularity of beads and beadwork has skyrocketed since the late 1980s. While there are many books on the subject, few direct more than just a passing glance at the art of beadwork from other times and cultures. As a result, today's jewelry enthusiasts are hungry for inspirational images of beadwork from around the world, as well as innovative and highly creative projects for beaded jewelry designs. The Art of Beadwork offers readers a detailed look at the quality, diversity, and stunning artistry of beadwork from ancient Egypt to the new millennium. From tribal Africa to East and South Asia, 17th-century England to 20th-century France, Central Asia to the Middle East and even the Americas and the Carribean, here are 24 exquisite projects inspired by some of the world's great cultures. Rather than merely providing instructions for copying, this remarkable reference demonstrates how to translate one or more of an inspirational piece's characteristics-color, technique, and dimension-into dazzling examples of contemporary jewelry design. Readers will discover how to use these beadwork methods to create impressive beaded necklaces, earrings, pendants, pins, bracelets, hair ornaments, bags, and more through easy-to-follow diagrams and complete instructions. Along with a history of beadwork, lists of materials needed, and a comprehensive appendix of resources, this guide also features resplendent, full-color examples from such noted beadworkers as Flora Book, David Chatt, Sharon Donovan, Kathryn Harris, NanC Meinhardt, Don Pierce, and Laura Shea.