Handmade Ghana Glass Beads - Recycled African Trade Beads

Beautiful New Glass (Fragments) African Trade Beads from Ghana

Explore the elegance of our African trade beads, meticulously handcrafted by the skilled artisans of Kroboland, Ghana. These exquisite beads, imitating the classic "Dutch Annular" glass trade beads, are a testament to the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of West Africa.

• Strand Length: Approximately 21 1/4" (54 cm)
• Bead Size: 11 - 12 mm in diameter

Each bead is uniquely crafted from recycled glass fragments, resulting in beads that are not only environmentally friendly but also visually stunning with their translucent and variegated appearance. The use of glass fragments, including window glass and other large pieces, gives these beads a distinctive charm.

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 Kroboland in Ghana employ traditional techniques to produce these beautiful beads:

• Collection and Preparation: Glass bottles and other glass items are collected, cleaned, and broken into small fragments.
• Molding: The glass fragments are placed into clay molds, determining the shape and size of the beads.
• Firing: The molds are fired at high temperatures, fusing the fragments together while preserving their original colors and translucency.
• Finishing: Once cooled, the beads are polished to smooth out any rough edges.

These beads are more than just decorative items; they hold significant cultural value in Ghanaian society, often used in ceremonies and as symbols of status and identity.

Discover more of our New African Krobo Glass Beads, explore our Archives for sold African made beads,and learn about the bead-making process in our YouTube video.