Beads have long been an integral part of African history, tradition, and culture. Beads of all shapes and various materials have been used to adorn the body, to enhance artwork, for cultural practices, and as a form of currency. Special, unique, or rare beads would hold high value, thus the owner or wearer would be considered wealthy and/or of royal or respected lineage. Beads worn on the body would often be a determinant of who you were, what family or tribe you were a part of, where you lived, your age, your personal status and/or abilities, your accomplishments, rite of passage, or milestones, or weight tracking. Ultimately, people wear waist for personal reasons that is special to the individual. No one can tell you why or how to wear the beads.