Exquisite African Trade Beads - 10mm Recycled Glass from Ghana

Introducing a beautiful strand of NEW powder glass African beads, handcrafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These stunning beads are designed to imitate the exquisite old Venetian fancy trade beads, adding a touch of history and elegance to any jewelry collection.

• Strand Length: 23 1/2" (60 cm)
• Bead Size: 10 mm in diameter

Each bead is meticulously crafted from recycled glass, including bottles and other glass items. The glass is turned into powder and then molded into these beautiful beads, showcasing the ingenuity and sustainability of the Krobo artisans.

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

Handcrafting Technique of Fancy Krobo Beads

The creation of these exquisite beads involves a unique and intricate process. The people of Krobo in Ghana are renowned for their exceptional bead-making skills, which have been passed down through generations. The process begins with crushing recycled glass into a fine powder. This powder is then carefully placed into molds to form the beads.

Decoration

What sets fancy beads apart is the detailed decoration process. Artisans use a combination of glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to create intricate patterns and vibrant designs. Metal or wooden tools are often used to etch or paint detailed motifs onto the beads, resulting in truly unique and colorful pieces.

Firing

Once decorated, the beads are fired in a kiln at high temperatures. This process fuses the glass powder and sets the designs in place, giving the beads their final, durable form. The result is a strand of beads that is not only beautiful but also rich in cultural significance.

Trade beads like these have played a crucial role in the history of Ghana and Africa, serving as a medium of exchange and a symbol of wealth and social status. Today, they continue to be cherished for their beauty and craftsmanship, making them a perfect addition to any collection.

Explore our collection of new African Krobo glass beads currently available for sale. You can also browse through our archives of sold African-made beads to see the variety and richness of our past offerings. Learn more about the fascinating bead-making process in Kroboland by watching our YouTube video.