Beautiful Ghanaian Powder Glass Beads - African Trade Beads

Beautiful Powder Glass Beads - Handcrafted African Trade Beads from Ghana

Discover the elegance of African craftsmanship with this exquisite strand of powder glass beads, meticulously handcrafted by the skilled artisans of Krobo, Ghana. These beads are a modern interpretation of the historic Venetian fancy trade beads, bringing a touch of history and tradition to your jewelry designs.

• Strand Length: Approximately 27" (68 cm)
• Bead Size: Approximately 9 mm in diameter

Each bead is made from recycled glass bottles and other glass items that are pulverized into powder. The powdered glass is then carefully placed into molds to create these stunning beads. The entire process is done by hand, ensuring that each bead is unique and full of character.

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 Krobo Bead Making

The people of Krobo in Ghana have mastered the intricate art of bead making, a craft that has been passed down through generations. The process begins with crushing glass into a fine powder. This powder is then carefully poured into clay molds, often with a cassava leaf stem inserted to create the bead’s hole. The molds are heated in a kiln, where the intense heat fuses the glass powder together, forming solid beads.

Decoration

What sets these fancy beads apart is the detailed decoration process. Artisans use a blend of glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to create intricate patterns and vibrant designs. They employ metal or wooden tools to etch or paint detailed motifs onto the beads, making each piece a tiny work of art.

Firing

After the decoration is complete, the beads undergo a final firing in a kiln. This high-temperature process not only sets the designs in place but also ensures the durability and longevity of each bead.

Trade beads have played a significant role in African culture and commerce for centuries. They were used as currency, for barter, and as symbols of wealth and status. Today, they continue to be cherished for their beauty and historical significance.

Explore our collection of New African Krobo Glass Beads and find the perfect strand for your next jewelry project. Browse our Archives to discover the rich history of African beads. Learn more about the bead-making process with this video on YouTube.