Small beads threaded on a thread, line or thin rubber are a popular jewelry usually worn on a neck and forearm. Many thousands of years ago, clothes and hair were decorated with seeds, pebbles, as well as pieces of shells, beads and bones. Today beads can be made of precious stones and pearls as well as much cheaper materials – wood, glass and plastic. They are mainly associated with the hippie and boho styles, as well as various kinds of ethnic jewelry. Cords of shiny, pink and purple beads are also associated with the celebration of Mardi Gras.