Large Fancy Powder Glass Beads - African Trade Beads from Ghana

Discover the beauty of these large powder glass African beads, expertly crafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These beads are designed to imitate the elegance of old Venetian fancy trade beads, making them a unique addition to any jewelry or bead collection.

• Strand Length: 24" (61 cm)
• Bead Size: 12 mm in diameter

Each bead is meticulously handmade from recycled bottles and other glass items. The glass is turned into powder, placed into molds, and carefully crafted into these stunning beads. The entire process is a testament to the skill and tradition 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).

Craftsmanship and Tradition

The creation of these fancy glass beads involves a detailed and intricate process. Artisans use a combination of glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to form vibrant patterns and designs. Metal or wooden tools are often employed to etch or paint detailed motifs onto the beads.

Firing Process

Once decorated, the beads are fired in a kiln. The high temperatures fuse the glass powder, setting the designs in place and giving the beads their final, durable form. This meticulous firing process ensures that each bead is a unique piece of art, rich in cultural heritage.

Importance of Trade Beads in Ghana and Africa

Trade beads have a long history in Ghana and across Africa. They were originally used as a form of currency and played a significant role in trade. Today, these beads symbolize cultural identity and artistic expression, continuing to be an important part of Ghanaian culture.

Explore our extensive collection of new African Krobo glass beads currently available for sale at TribalGH. Visit our archives to see sold-out African-made beads at TribalGH Archives. Watch how these amazing beads are made in this video.