Orchids are such exotic flowers to us but really, they are one of the most abundant and diverse blooming plants in the world. They come in varied shapes and colors and are often fragrant.  Many beadwork designers are certainly inspired by these flowers!

The above drop dead gorgeous bead embroidered orchid flower kit is from Tetyana of CraftShopOnline.  

I love how designer Mary Zakh of KeliaZ used chains to compliment her beaded orchid flower earrings design! She has several other floral designs so check out her collection. 

Another gem is this beaded orchid earrings tutorial by Jekaterina of KHandsjewelry. I like how she outlines the edges with a different colour. You can easily swap out the main colours to whatever combination you like!

Another outstanding bead embroidered orchid flower brooch tutorial and kit is this one from Iryna of ExclusiveCraft.  

This large beaded orchid brooch tutorial by Maryna of MyBeadsJewelry is certainly a looker! 

A Short History of Vanilla

Origins of Food's video shows how the humble vanilla orchid was cultivated to become the world's second most expensive food flavouring after saffron.  (N.B. It is unfortunate the video has a terrible clickbait title.)

However, it is true the solution to pollinating the vanilla orchid without bees was discovered by a 12 year old enslaved boy on the French controlled Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean. The plant was introduced there from its native Mexico habitat. The boy, Edmond Albius was freed for his contribution but died impoverished. 

Today, the largest exporters of vanilla include Madagascar , a large island in the Indian Ocean and Uganda in East Africa.

 

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Original Post by THE BEADING GEM