Handmade Ghana Fancy Powder Glass Beads - 27" Strand

Introducing a stunning strand of fancy powder glass beads, meticulously handcrafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These exquisite beads are inspired by the historic Venetian trade beads, offering a beautiful fusion of tradition and artistry.

• Length: 27" (69 cm)
• Bead Size: 9 mm in diameter

Each bead is crafted from recycled bottles and other glass items, which are ground into powder and then molded into these beautiful beads. This eco-friendly process not only helps in recycling waste but also keeps the ancient bead-making traditions alive.

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

The Technique of Crafting Fancy Krobo Beads

The creation of these beads involves a meticulous process passed down through generations among the people of Krobo. The artisans begin by crushing recycled glass into a fine powder. This powder is then carefully placed into clay molds. After forming, the beads are intricately decorated using a combination of glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to achieve vibrant, detailed patterns. The designs are often applied using metal or wooden tools to etch or paint motifs onto the beads.

Decoration and Firing

What sets these fancy beads apart is the detailed decoration process. The 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. The decorated beads are then fired in a kiln at high temperatures, which fuses the glass powder and sets the designs in place, giving the beads their final form.

The importance of these trade beads in Ghana and Africa is immense. They have been used for centuries as a form of currency, in ceremonies, and as symbols of status and wealth. Today, they continue to be a cherished part of Ghanaian culture and are highly sought after by collectors and jewelry makers worldwide.

Explore our collection of the New African Krobo Glass Beads available for sale. Discover our Archives of previously sold African-made beads. Watch how Krobos produce their beads in our YouTube video.