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January 2013 A BRIEF HISTORY OF AN ANCIENT AND ILLUSTRIOUS GLOBAL ADORNMENT - Liza Wataghani

On November 20, 2012, Liza Wataghani gave a fact and picture filled presentation on “gem quality” coral.

“At one time, coral was found abundantly in clear, warm and tropical waters. Dead coral reefs dating back to 500 - 570 million years ago have been located deep under these seas which leads historians to presume that coral reefs were much more abundant than are currently found. Even the fossils of the ancient corals are now being cut and polished for beads.

Museums around the world have collections of coral. Throughout modern history, coral has been favored by famous people from Napoleon, to Lincoln. Because it is so soft, it was often carved into delicate flowers, cherubs, roses, and was often combined with gold, diamonds and emeralds in better jewelry. Coral has gone down through history as a talisman throughout the world’s cultures. Beads and artifacts have been discovered in graves of pre-dynastic Egypt dating back to 4000 years B.C.” (jewelinfo4u.com/coral-in-history)

The multiple photos placed around the room and the slides showed

coral ~ both in the raw as found basically in the Mediterranean waters and in fabulously carved jewelry pieces from those surrounding lands.

She gave the history of each of the slides showing Edwardian pieces from Italy, Victorian pieces from China, anklets from Bedouin and Saudi Arabia, tiny coral beads made into a necklace for a small child, Sino-Tibetan pieces from the Himalayas, Mongolian pieces imbedded with turquoise and silver and other fabulous necklaces, bracelets, and headpieces from around the world…. because so many old pieces were considered dowry pieces and buried with the person upon their death, many cultures think that “coral comes from under the ground” and no amount of discussion can change their age-old thinking.

Many coral beads have been worn smooth with constant usage as prayer beads. Even when coral beads broke or became weakened, they kept their value when inlaid with turquoise or silver to strengthen the beads. Today, even faux coral beads are being repaired with copper wire to maintain their cultural value. Liza has found that these beads are being given as much value as the real thing.

In China, much coral was lost under Mao Tse-Tung’s rein through the late 60’s and early 70’s. Many pieces came into the United States via Canada as importing directly from China was forbidden. This developed into a very lucrative secret industry of exporting and importing coral which found ways to bypass the legal restrictions.

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Due to restrictions, many “faux” pieces of coral have been introduced ~ so gorgeous that their very artistry has given them extreme worth. Liza discussed and showed photos of many pieces of pre-World War II celluloid from Japan with labels stating “U.S. Occupation” ~ as antique dealers know this label alone gives the piece additional value.

Recently, industrial coral farming has been forbidden in many areas due to the methods of under-sea dredging with weighted nets. This breaks off branches, devastates the coral reefs and often leads to the death of the entire colony. Many countries are striving to develop and maintain serious restrictions and are encouraging the re-growth of the coral colonies around the world.

Much contemporary coral is coming out of North Africa and Algeria. Because many countries have direct export restrictions, pieces are taken across borders into more lenient neighboring countries. These restrictions have varied with time, tribes, and politics, especially between Morocco and Algeria. This causes a total irrelevance as to where a person may have purchased a piece of coral as the buyer will never know where it was originally from.

One of the interesting points from Liza is that she has never found and good coral from Egypt. Liza showed pieces of coral that were capped with silver and then taken into Tunisia for sale to the public. In the over 30-40 years of dealing with coral, she has never been able to authenticate many of her pieces because of the borders issues. She recently got a shipment from Nigeria which was four long strands of really large beads of coral ~ and has no idea where they originated.

One of the photos was of a sculpture of a captured African king dressed head to toe in coral. He was held prisoner until he could deliver slaves for the Portuguese slave traders to the worth of the coral he was dressed in. Such was the worth of coral in ancient times.

Due to traders around the world, coral has also been taken to Ecuador and the Philippines by the Spanish. They also traded coral into the American southwest to Native Americans.

Coral comes in many colors ~ not just the commonly found red shades. Much of what is on the modern market is labeled “Sponge Coral” and “Apple Coral”. “Denim Coral” has been found in the area around Catalina Islands. Much “coral” is often dyed abalone and spondylis. Black coral was once found in the Red Sea but last report is that it is all gone and recently, Yemen got into major trouble for exporting black coral. Black coral has also been found around the Hawaiian Islands but it is also now forbidden to collect from those waters. Brown coral has been found off the Alaskan waters, which is amazing due to the extremely cold waters associated with that far north, but warmer water climate changes brought this area into becoming

a new source for coral.

The main issue with coral is one of humidity. If coral gets dry, the outer

rings crack and come apart and the value is lost. Many of the

B.S.N.C. members brought or wore pieces from their

personal collections. The meeting ran longer than

normal with the interchange of comments between members and Liza.

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GEOMETRIC BEADED BEADS: INFLUENCES FROM MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE - Cindy Holsclaw

On October 16, 2012 Cindy Holsclaw explained how many beaded beads are based on different mathematical shapes: cubes (squares on 6 faces), tetrahedra (4 triangular faces), octahedra (8 triangular faces), dodecahedra (made up from 12 pentagons), icosahedra (20 triangular faces) as well as prisms and dipyramids... (O.K. now don’t stop reading this article and think we have all gone off the deep end). Cindy totally amazed us all by showing the inner structure of Beaded Beads. Many of us who are in love with seedbeads have created these wonderful little 3-dimensional pretties….But she explained how they are structurally constructed by using mathematics and science. She has an extensive training in both mathematics and science: she is a biochemist, has her Ph.D. from UC Davis in 2010, she works with a mass spectrometer (a huge complicated machine!) and she loves playing with modular and geometric origami. She discovered beadweaving while in graduate school and became hooked on them. Then she realized that she could physically explain what she does by constructing beaded beads using the various shapes. In playing with modular origami, the artist folds “modules” into boxes or shapes. She displayed a number of her pieces and showed slides of

others, explaining the shapes that are used and how they link together to form a solid but hollow structure. Check out “Between the Folds” on PBS for total amazement. Those weird names listed at the beginning explain solid faces that, when of all the same size and shape, and when interconnected, come to make a 3-dimensional shape. She showed how you can take a flat object, fold it on the edges, and then connect sides becomes a 3-dimensional object. The cube is the easiest to explain as it is 6 sides of the same size and shape of a square. Draw four squares in a straight line, then at one end add an equal square off on each side (looks like a “T”), thus giving you 6 faces. If you cut this out, fold on all the lines and connect the edges with tape, you will make a cube. Now do this again with seedbeads and start to play with it. If you add beads at each of the corners where the faces intersect, and then interconnect with more beads across the open faces, and then add tiny tims (elongated tears with a hole in the narrow end) in the centers ~ well, you are on your way to a beaded bead…..just keep tract of what you do at each

stage so you can make another one. Well, what you have just done can be explained, step by step, mathematically! This is what Cindy does. Cindy knocked our socks off by showing the beadwork from numerous bead artists who have created beaded beads, and was able to show the mathematical shapes that formed the bases of each of the pretties. Bead artists that so many of us know or at least recognize their

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name and bead artistry such as: Jean Power, Sabine Lippert, Gwen Fisher, Florence Turnour, Marcia DeCoster, Cynthia Newcomer Daniel, Onye Ndika, Carol Wilcox-Wells, Laura Shea, Chris Prussing, Diane Fitzgerald, Sharri Moroshok, Judy Walker ~ those names and their work amazed us all. When she showed the various shapes that these artists have created, and then showed her examples of origami, we could totally visualize the joining of the two physical forms. The beaded beads with lots of sides and interlocking beads actually have fancy names and mathematical formulas to create them. The most amazing part is when she showed slides of science ~ microbes, algae, and especially snowflakes –(just look at close-ups of these if you have any questions). The structure of DNA is done easily with beads, and Cindy actually made a necklace with different beads showing the sequence of a gene from E. coli and can teach a genetics class using her beadwork as an example of gene regulation. Cindy Holsclaw is a bead artist and a scientist who also

specializes in creating gorgeous geometric beaded structures. Her latest work can be found in Beadwork Magazine as part of their 15th Anniversary Series on Beaded Beads. To see more of Cindy’s accomplishments, go to: www.beadorigami.com Awards and Publications "Twin Snowflakes Bracelet", Beadwork Magazine. Interweave Press, in press. "Dewdrop Beaded Bead", Beadwork Magazine. Interweave Press, October/November 2012. "Ice Queen Necklace", 2nd Place, Bead Mavens Ice Queen Challenge, December 2010. “Lavender Splendor”, Honorable Mention in the Seed Bead Category, 2nd Annual Bead Star Contest. Bead Star 2009, Interweave Press, December 2009. Education Ph.D., University of California, Davis (2010). Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. B.S., San Francisco State University, San Francisco (2005). Cell and Molecular Biology.

BRAGGS & BOUQUETS Ralph McCaskey, of Nightside Studios, was juried into The Oakland Museum of California's adjunct show that, unfortunately, just closed, "Playing With Fire: The Art of Making Glass" ( museumca.org/playing-with-fire-the-art-making-glass) at the Oakland International Airport. Three of Ralph's more complex glass Monster beads were featured in the Torchwork portion of the show, along with a collection of glass and electroformed copper vessels and two step-by-step examples of how to make sculptural bees and poppies. The show featured several glass artists, all from California, and celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the modern Studio Art Glass Movement, covering several aspects of glassworking and included glassblowing and fusing, as well. Ralph was also a presenter at Oakland's The Crucible, during its recent show also celebrating the 50th anniversary. Ralph's work can also be found on his website (www.nightsidestudios.com) and in his Etsy shop (www.etsy.com/shop/nightsidestudios). He is also a regular fixture at the BABE Show.

Community Board

Are you familiar with beading and Swarovski Elements and like to make kits, organize beads, pack orders, count inventory, make labels etc. We're looking for extra back-up help to prepare for bead shows as needed. Located at our

home studio in Forestville. If interested please email qualifications to linda@alacarteclasps.com.

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Calendar of Events January 19, 2013 Saturday 10am-1pm

Carol Tanenbaum will teach a paper bead-making workshop at Blue Door Beads. The class will cover paper bead-making techniques and include a fringed bracelet project. Four parking spaces in the back! You can enroll in the workshop by calling Blue Door Beads or visit www.bluedoorbeads.com.

Blue Door Beads 4167 Piedmont Ave Oakland CA 94611 510-652-2583

January 19, 2013 Saturday 10am-2pm

Leslie Lawton Bead, Button and Jewelry Sale Once more we are letting go of some beautiful things. Buy gorgeous beads, buttons, pearls, antique components and pieces below cost. We're also having a Save & Splurge sale on Fall/Winter jewelry. First 10 people in the door receive an additional 10% discount.

251 Clorinda Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 415-456-0930

January 25, 2013 Friday 7pm-11pm February 22, 2013 Friday 7pm-11pm

Join Blue Door Beads for 4 hours of bead time after hours! Enjoy dinner and wine while you work on a project or create something new with others. Plus, take 10% off your ENTIRE purchase that night, and get a chance to win gift cards! Must reserve your seat ahead of time! (Non-alcoholic drinks also to be served.) Check out more January and February classes at www.bluedoorbeads.com

4167 Piedmont Ave. Oakland, CA 94611 510-652-BLUE (2583)

February 6-10, 2013 Patty Lakinsmith will be exhibiting her lampwork at the Best Bead Show in Tucson at Table G-409 (in the Gym).

Kino Veterans Memorial Community Center 2805 E Ajo Way Tucson, AZ 85713-6217

February 16-17, 2013 Saturday & Sunday 10 am - 5 pm

Nancy Nagle Beads will be at the Antioch Lapidary Club “Treasures of the Earth 2012” 54th Annual Gem Show. For more information - www.ncnaglegemsandbeads.com or www.antiochlapidaryclub.com.

Contra Costa County Fairgrounds Antioch, CA 94509

February 27-29, 2013 Thursday – Saturday 10am – 5pm

The Garden of Beadin’ will be at the Rusty Barn Sew, Quilt and Craft show. They will have Czech & Japanese seed beads, Tilas, New Findings, Beading Supplies & much more. Bead society members get 10% off.

San Mateo Event Center 2495 S Delaware St. San Mateo, CA 94403

March 1-3, 2013 Friday & Saturday 10 am - 6 pm Sunday 10 am - 5 pm

Nancy Nagle Beads will be at the Castro Valley Gem & Mineral Society Annual Gem Show. For more information - www.ncnaglegemsandbeads.com or www.mgscv.org.

The Newark Pavilion 6430 Thornton Ave Newark, CA 94560

March 1-3, 2013 Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10 am - 6 pm

The Bead & Boutique Arts Show specializes in one-of-a-kind works of art, beads, jewelry supplies, & vintage items. Complimentary on-site parking. For exhibitor and workshop lists, and registration, go to www.beadandboutique.com. Northern California Bead Society Members receive free admission to the show!

Hilton Concord 1970 Diamond Blvd. Concord, CA

March 2, 2013 Saturday 10am-5pm

Wild Things Beads will be at the Button Bazaar Carmichael Park Community Club House 5750 Grant Ave. Carmichael, CA

March 16-17, 2013 Saturday & Sunday 10 am - 5 pm

Nancy Nagle Beads will be at the Vallejo Gem & Mineral Society 55th Annual Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show. For more information - www.ncnaglegemsandbeads.com.

SOLANO COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS! 900 Fairgrounds Road Vallejo 94589

March 22-23, 2013 Friday & Saturday 11am-5pm

Natural Touch Warehouse Sale We are pulling out all kinds of cool things. Many items from Judy's travels in S.E.Asia. Horn, wood, shell, palm nut, recycled glass, Indonesian lampwork glass, trade beads, Resin in all shapes and sizes. Metal Buttons, chain, & wire. Be green & bring shopping bags. This is at her residence, not downtown. Lots of parking, easy to find. Rain Cancels

440 Donner Avenue Petaluma, CA 94954 707-781-0808 email:ntbeads@gmail.com

March 23-24, 2013 Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 10am-4pm

Wild Things Beads will be at the Roseville Rock Rollers Rock Club Show - Nature's Wonders

Roseville Fairgrounds 800 All America City Blvd. Roseville, CA

March 29-31, 2013 Friday 12pm-6pm Saturday 10 am - 6 pm Sunday 11 am - 5 pm

The Garden of Beadin’ will be at the International Gem & Jewelry Show They will have Czech & Japanese seed beads, Findings, Beading Supplies & much more. Bead society members get 10% off.

San Mateo Event Center 2495 S Delaware St. San Mateo, CA 94403

April 12-14, 2013 Friday 12pm-6pm Saturday 10am-6pm Sunday 10am-5pm

Wild Things Beads will be at the Eureka, Gem, Bead, Jewelry & Mineral Show Redwood Acres Fairground 3750 Harris Street Eureka, CA

Every First Saturday 12pm-5pm

Please join Susan Brooks @ the Studio. For more info or to make an appointment, visit www.susanbrooks.com or Facebook her at www.facebook.com/pages/Susan-Brooks.

2547 Eighth Street #24a Parker, Berkeley

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DISCOUNTS FOR BSNC MEMBERS!

The following stores offer discounts – show your current membership card

ALAMEDA Bead Inspirations www.BeadInspirations.com 1544 Park Street Tel: 510-337-1203 10% discount except class fees, books, consignment jewelry & instructor material kits. ANTIOCH Gee Jay’s Beads & Rocks 416 W 2nd Street Tel: 925-757-4752 10% discount. BENICIA Beading Around the Bush 126 East E Street Tel: 707-747-9094 15% discount except for classes, books & sale items. BERKELEY Baubles & Beads www.BaublesandBeads.com 1676 Shattuck Avenue Tel: 510-644-2323 15% discount except for classes, books & sale items. If shopping online, use coupon code NCBS15. CONCORD Just Bead It! www.JustBeadItConcord.com 2051 Harrison Street, Suite C Tel:925-682-6943 DANVILLE Best Bead Shop www.BestBeadShop.com 294 A Railroad Avenue Tel:925-314-0337 Cottage Jewel www.CottageJewel.com 100 Prospect Avenue Tel: 925-837-2664 10-15% off everything not marked net. GARBERVILLE Garden of Beadin’ www.GardenofBeadin.com 752 Redwood Drive Tel: 800-232-3588 Fax: 707-923-9160 Email: Beads@asis.com 10% off for all BSNC members, in our store or at any of our shows. Does not apply to already discounted merchandise.

OAKLAND Blue Door Beads www.BlueDoorBeads.com 4167 Piedmont Ave Tel: 510-652-2583 10% discount. PENN VALLEY Wild Things Beads www.WildThings.com PO Box 1990 Tel: 530-743-1339 20% discount on Czech pressed beads and fire polish. SAN JOSE Sew Bedazzled 1068 Lincoln Avenue Tel: 408-293-2232 10% discount except on classes. SAN RAFAEL Baubles & Beads www.BaublesAndBeads.com 1104 4 th Street Tel: 415-457-8891 15% discount except on classes, books & sale items. SANTA CRUZ Kiss My Glass 660A 7th Avenue Tel: 831-462-3077 15% Discount VALLEJO Beads in Pomegranate Seeds 538 C Florida Street Tel: 707-557-3337 10% Discount INTERNET STORES CBA, Inc. www.ChinaBizAccess.com Tel: 916-873-6230 Fax: 916-983-9128 15% discount except for on already discounted merchandise. Enter member code BSNC in comment area when ordering. Natural Touch www.NaturalTouchBeads.com Tel: 707.781.0808 NCBS members receive 10% off their Resin Bead Purchases. Put note in comments section of checkout or call 707.781.0808 Discount does not apply to sale items or markdowns

Mark the Date!! The BSNC 2013 Spring Bead Bazaar

will be

Saturday, May 18, 2013 at the Oakland Marriott City Center

Hotel/Convention Center. Contracts will go out in mid-January 2013

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Annual Membership Dues, which include digital mailings and meetings are $20 per year. Memberships with snail mail and meetings is $25 per year. The year begins on the month you join. Dues are accepted at monthly meetings or can be paid online using PayPal or a credit card, or with a Membership Application printed from our website.