Exquisite Fancy African Trade Beads – Handcrafted in Ghana

Fancy African Trade Beads – Handcrafted Ghana Glass Beads

Discover the exquisite beauty of our new powder glass beads, meticulously handcrafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland, Ghana. These stunning beads are inspired by the traditional Venetian fancy trade beads, offering a unique blend of history and artistry.

• Strand Length: 24 1/2" (62 cm)
• Bead Size: 11 mm in diameter

Each bead is made from recycled glass bottles and other glass items that are ground into a fine powder and then formed into molds. The process of creating these beads is entirely manual, ensuring that every strand is a unique piece of art.

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

Artisanal Craftsmanship and Tradition

The people of Kroboland in Ghana use a time-honored technique to produce these fancy glass beads. This intricate process starts with grinding recycled glass into a fine powder. The powdered glass is then placed into hand-carved molds to shape each bead. These molds can be simple or feature elaborate designs, reflecting the artisan's skill and creativity.

Decoration and Firing

What sets these fancy beads apart is their detailed decoration. Artisans combine 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. Once decorated, the beads are fired in a kiln, where high temperatures fuse the glass powder and set the designs in place, giving the beads their final, stunning form.

Importance of Trade Beads

Trade beads have been an essential part of African culture for centuries, serving not only as decorative items but also as a form of currency and a symbol of social status. In Ghana and across Africa, these beads hold significant cultural value, representing the rich history and artistry of the region.

Explore our New African Krobo Glass Beads collection for more stunning pieces. Visit our Archives of African Made Beads to see sold items and the heritage they carry. Watch a video on how Krobosproduce their beads on YouTube.