Native American beads were originally carved from shells, coral, stones, copper, silver, wood, amber, ivory, and animal bones, horns, and teeth. Once glass beads were introduced by the Europeans, they quickly became part of American Indian culture. Today glass beads, particularly fine seed beads, are the primary materials for traditional beaders of many tribes. We carry the creations of Cherokee bead artisans, who make necklaces, belts, bags, buttons, earrings and lapel ornaments.