Authentic African Trade Powder Glass Beads from Ghana – 12-13mm

Introducing our stunning strand of NEW powder glass African beads, crafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These exquisite beads are inspired by the historic Venetian fancy trade beads, making them a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and artistic elegance.

• Strand Length: 26 1/2" (67 cm) of beads
• Bead Size: 12-13 mm in diameter

Each bead is meticulously handmade from recycled glass bottles and other glass items. The glass is ground into powder, placed into molds, and then transformed into these beautiful beads through a detailed and time-honored process.

YOUR STRAND WILL BE IDENTICAL TO THE STRAND SHOWN IN THE PHOTOGRAPH (GIVEN NORMAL VARIATION SINCE THESE BEADS ARE ALL COMPLETELY HANDMADE).

The Art of Bead Making in Kroboland

The people of Kroboland in Ghana have perfected the art of creating fancy glass beads through generations. This traditional technique involves several intricate steps, ensuring each bead is a unique piece of art. The process begins with crushing recycled glass into a fine powder. This powder is then carefully poured into clay molds, which are hand-carved to create various shapes and sizes of beads.

Decoration

What sets these fancy beads apart is the detailed decoration process. Artisans use a combination of glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to create intricate patterns and vibrant designs. Using metal or wooden tools, they etch or paint detailed motifs onto the beads, resulting in stunningly beautiful and unique pieces.

Firing

Once decorated, the beads are fired in a kiln. The high temperatures fuse the glass powder, setting the designs in place and giving the beads their final, polished form. This firing process not only solidifies the beads but also enhances their vibrant colors and intricate patterns.

Trade beads hold significant cultural and historical importance in Ghana and across Africa. They were once used as a form of currency and played a vital role in trade and cultural exchange. Today, these beads continue to be cherished for their beauty and craftsmanship, representing the rich heritage of African artistry.

Explore more of our unique collections:

• New African Krobo Glass Beads
• Archived African Made Beads
• Watch How Krobo Beads are Made