A form of tribal and symbolic African jewelry, hair on shaft comprises hair spirals, beads, coins, and other materials twisted onto a thin wire that coils around a ring or band. During the middle of the 14th century, West African craftsmen, particularly the Tuareg tribe, designed these pieces for both men and women, with women and girls often wearing an abundance of them for adornment.
A sign of prestige, wealth, social status, and even marital commitment, hair on shaft pieces vary in design and size. Their international significance, unique techniques, and utilization of both local and imported materials have made these jewels popular for their cultural and ornamental appeal.