Like the exotic look of Mehendi around your wrist, ankle, or throat? No henna artist in sight? Well, don't fold up your tent yet. You can have that look, without staining your skin, or walking in the sand dunes, here, with this delicate, Middle Eastern inspired peyote stitch piece. This bracelet is made with Delica beads composed of the rich, lush color of Henna (DB 22) and the smooth hue of a pampered Cleopatra's wrist (DB 353).

Mehendi, also known as Henna, is a very ancient art, having its origins in India and across the Silk Road through the Middle East and into the desert regions of North Africa. It was (and is) most often used to decorate brides. The legend goes that as long as a bride's henna paintings have not worn off, she need not do housework in her new mother-in-law's home. I'm sure many a desert bride thought up numerous ways of keeping her paintings as fresh and clear as they were on the day of her wedding.

Most traditional Indian henna patterns are very curvy and floral in nature. Dots are used to bring good wishes and money, in fact they are sometimes called "money dots". The more Tribal Henna traditions of North African areas such as Egypt and Morocco are more angular and geometric. I like to think that this pattern is a beadwork blend of both styles; lots of angles and some areas suggesting flowers, and, of course, loads of dots, which can also signify beads!

Have fun with this Peyote Mehendi!