Belly chain

Historically, waist chains have been used in India, by men and women, as ornaments and as part of religious ceremonies, as accessories and to show affluence.

[4] Many ancient sculptures and paintings from locations in India, dating back to the Indus Valley civilization, indicate that waist chains were a very popular jewelry.

In the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, every newborn receives a waist chain as a cultural pact.

[18] A similar garment of beads worn around the waist has appeared in several aspects of African culture such as dress, childcare, and relationships.

Notably in Ghanaian and Nigerian culture, these waist beads have functioned as slings for loincloths, and as support when a child is carried on one's back.

[19] As the practice has spread throughout the diaspora, they have become accessories to express femininity, enhance sexuality by drawing attention to the hips, and serve as a symbol of fertility.