Authentic Ghanaian Recycled Glass Beads – African Trade Beads

Discover the beauty of our NEW recycled glass (fragments) African beads, handmade by the skilled artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These beads imitate the old "Dutch Annular" glass trade beads, showcasing a blend of traditional craftsmanship and eco-friendly practices.

• Strand Length: 21 1/2" (54.5 cm)
• Bead Size: 12 mm in diameter

Made from recycled glass fragments, these beads are crafted by placing the glass into molds, resulting in stunning, translucent beads with a unique appearance. Each bead is 100% handmade.

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

In the Krobo region of Ghana, artisans create these beautiful beads using recycled glass fragments. The process involves several intricate steps:

1. Collection and Preparation: Glass bottles and other glass items are collected, cleaned, and broken into small fragments.
2. Molding: The glass fragments are placed into clay molds, determining the beads' shape and size.
3. Firing: The molds with the glass fragments are fired in a kiln at high temperatures. This fuses the fragments together, preserving their original colors and translucency.
4. Finishing: Once cooled, the beads are removed from the molds and polished to smooth out any rough edges.

These beads are notable for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, holding cultural significance in Ghanaian society. They are often used in ceremonies and as symbols of status and identity, making them a meaningful addition to any jewelry collection.

Explore more from our collection of New African Krobo Glass Beads, check out our Archives of African-made Beads, or watch our artisans in action on YouTube.