Handmade Fancy Krobo Glass Beads - 26" Strand, 10mm Beads

Introducing our exquisite strand of NEW powder glass African beads, handcrafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These beads beautifully imitate old Venetian fancy trade beads, making them a unique and eye-catching addition to any collection.

• Length of strand: Approximately 26" (66 cm)
• Size of beads: Approximately 10 mm in diameter

Each bead is meticulously created from recycled bottles and other glass items. These materials are ground into powder and then molded into the stunning beads you see here. The beads are 100% handmade, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of the Krobo people.

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 creation of these fancy glass beads is a time-honored tradition in Kroboland. Artisans employ a detailed decoration process, combining glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to craft intricate patterns and vibrant designs. Using metal or wooden tools, they etch or paint detailed motifs onto each bead.

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. They may use metal or wooden tools to etch or paint detailed motifs onto the beads.

Firing

The decorated beads are then fired in a kiln. The high temperatures fuse the glass powder and set the designs in place, giving the beads their final form. This process not only solidifies the structure of the beads but also enhances their colors and patterns, resulting in stunning, durable pieces.

Trade beads have played a significant role in the cultural and economic history of Ghana and Africa as a whole. They were used as a form of currency and symbolized wealth and status. Today, they continue to be highly valued for their beauty and craftsmanship.

Explore our collection of new African Krobo glass beads, discover our archives of sold African-made beads, and watch a fascinating video on how the Krobo people produce their beads:

• New African Krobo Glass Beads Collection
• Archives of African-Made Beads
• Watch How Krobo Beads Are Made