Fancy African Trade Beads - Powder Glass from Ghana

NEW African Trade Beads - Fancy Powder Glass Beads from Ghana

Discover the beauty of our fancy powder glass beads, meticulously handcrafted by the skilled artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These stunning beads imitate the elegance of old Venetian fancy trade beads, showcasing the rich heritage and artistry of African bead-making.

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

Each bead is crafted from recycled bottles and other glass items, ground into powder, and then carefully molded to create these exquisite beads. The beads are entirely handmade, ensuring each piece is unique.

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 Making Fancy Krobo Beads

The people of Krobo in Ghana have perfected the art of making these fancy glass beads through a detailed and labor-intensive process. Artisans begin by crushing recycled glass into a fine powder. This powder is then carefully placed into clay molds, where it is shaped into beads.

What sets these fancy beads apart is the intricate decoration process. Using a combination of glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes, artisans create vibrant patterns and designs. They often use metal or wooden tools to etch or paint detailed motifs onto the beads. Once decorated, the beads are fired in a kiln at high temperatures, fusing the glass powder and setting the designs in place, giving each bead its final, beautiful form.

Trade beads like these hold significant cultural and historical importance in Ghana and across Africa. They have been used for trade, currency, and adornment for centuries, symbolizing wealth and status. Owning a strand of these beads connects you to a rich tradition of craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

Explore more of TribalGH's exquisite collections:

• New African Krobo Glass Beads
• Archives - Other African Made Beads
• How Krobos Produce Their Beads (Video)