Introducing our New Waist Beads Collection by Ngaska

In African culture, waist beads are a symbol of prosperity, fertility, sensuality and spirituality. We just officially launched our very first waist beads collection, made with handpicked glass seed beads that are handcrafted and assembled in all corners of Senegal! In order to best help you in your choice of waist beads, here are answers to some of the questions you might have or encounter around waist beads!

Do the Ngaska Waist Beads have any specific meaning? In African culture, waist beads are a symbol of prosperity, fertility, sensuality and spirituality. There are different cultural practices that involve the use of waist beads, such as mothers adorning their daughters with waist beads at the traditional age when they become women, or people using waist beads to repel negative spirits or attract wealth. However, the Ngaska waist beads do not have any spiritual meaning, and are designed for fashion purposes only.  You can wear your waist beads and make them whatever you want them to be.

What are the Ngaska Waist Beads made of? Our waist beads are made of glass.  To see more about how the beads are made from glass, check out the video here. Once our artisans acquire the beads, they assemble them using an elastic string. Our waist bead collection does not have any clasps. 

What is the difference between waist beads and belly chains? The difference is in the name, essentially. The term “belly chain” is used to refer to waist beads used in the Indian tradition.  

What sizes are the Ngaska Waist Beads? The sizes vary based on the design, but range from 40 inches waist size to 74 inches waist size. 

Ready to order your waist beads? Check out the full collection now!

How can I take care of my Ngaska Waist Beads? Clean them with soap and water, no need for any specific care. Avoid pulling your waist beads, as it might weaken the elastic. 

Can I sleep with my Ngaska Waist Beads? Yes, if you feel comfortable doing so. Most women keep them on day and night, and only remember that they have them on when someone points it out!

Can I bathe with my Ngaska Waist Beads? Yes, if you feel comfortable doing so. 

How long will my Ngaska Waist Beads last for? As long as the elastic is potent! Most women keep their waist beads for 3-6 months minimum, and change them when the elastic weakens (as a normal part of the wear and tear process).

Do waist beads help you lose weight? Some people claim that they do. However, we have not yet encountered any research done on the topic that proves this hypothesis. For now, we only wear them as a fashion statement :)

What does it mean when your waist beads break? Waist beads can break if they are tampered with too often, or when the elastic weakens. If this happens, simply head over to our site to purchase your next set!

How long will my order take to ship? Our waist beads are ready made, and will be shipped within a week of placing your order (international shipments. CoVID rates apply). For shipments in Dominica, the beads are delivered within 3-5 days.

Ready to order your waist beads? Check out the full collection now!

How to tie/secure my Ngaska Waist Beads ?

How do I adjust my waist beads if I gain or lose weight? Gently cut the elastic and tie back the beads. 

How can I take my waist measurements to know which waist beads are right for me? If you have a seamstress, you can ask her to take your waist measurements :) If not, here is a graphic on how you can do it! Alternatively, it is important to note that our beads come ready made and fit most sizes. Simply pick the beads that are within your most likely waist range, and you’re good to go!

How do I know what set of Ngaska Waist Beads to choose? They are all so gorgeous, aren’t they? Pick the ones you love! The beads description on the website (www.ngaska.com) also indicates the waist size range. 

Can my Ngaska Waist Beads be paired or layered? You can decide to buy waist beads that come in pairs, or decide to get different designs and layer them as you wear them. 

Is there an age limit for buying/wearing waist beads? We recommend them for teenagers and above. For safety reasons, we do not recommend using them in people younger than 12 years old. 

What if I have an allergy to the materials used to make the Waist Beads? Our beads are made of glass and elastic. If allergic to the materials, remove the waist beads immediately, and consult with your physician immediately for medical treatment.

Ready to order your waist beads? Check out the full collection now!