Atlantic Canada is a region rich with history. First Nations people were the first to settle here about 8 to 10 thousand years ago, although they had been present in the New World for at least 15 thousand years. Evidently, their isolation did not prevent the evolution of their crafting skills. In fact, centuries before the arrival of Europeans on the territory, Native Americans were using tools such as stone fragments, rope saws and primitive drills, which permitted the development of various forms of art. For example, remnants of existence of the Newfoundland tribe, the Beotuks, have been discovered by archaeologists, who believe that among the most striking items are carved and decorated bones, often referred to as pendants.

When the first French settlers arrived in Northern America during the early 17th century (1600's), they formed alliances with First Nations people in order to conduct trades. Even though the most desired product was furs, colonizers soon discovered and desired native forms of body art.

The use of porcupine quills in the making of jewelry is unique to the Maritime Provinces and their native people, the Mi'kmaq. Quilling consist of drawing quills from the back of the porcupine, this was mostly done by the women of the tribe. Then, the quills were dyed and fashioned into necklaces, bracelets, scarves, etc., which were worn by both the men and women.

Another technique of jewelry making commonly practiced by Northern American First Nations tribes is the use of the wampum (white grain) used in the creation of belts, necklaces and other forms of body art. The significance of the wampum is very important since the wampum belts were often used during the establishment of intertribal and European/Native American treaties. The cylinder shape of the grains was achieved by rubbing the latter against stones. Other materials used in the making of these pieces were deer skins, watapp fibers and leather chains.

Native art forms of jewelry making are not only significant because of their decorative element, they also permit us to have a better understanding of First Nations' rituals and beliefs. Mi’kmaq’s deep personal respect between man and nature is represented in the jewelry of using indigenous materials and their innate resourcefulness from living in harmony with the land.