'The ‘isiqolo’ or built up headdress is the symbol of marriage among the Zulu people. It is commenced during the engagement period and increased in length after marriage. ‘Isiqolo’ shapes vary from one district to another, and a Zulu woman's home area may be judged by the shape of her coiffure, and the patterns of her beadwork. The headdress is composed of hair, teased out, reinforced with wool or grass and stitched, the cord ends being bound together at the back. The hair is also red-ochred and perfumed with powdered roots or sandal wood. Large earrings are a popular Zulu ornament, the lobes being pierced during childhood to fulfil a custom, when the child is said to have reached the stage when his or her ‘ears are opened.’ The lobes are then gradually enlarged.'