African Trade Beads: Fancy Powder Glass Beads from Ghana

Introducing a stunning strand of NEW powder glass African beads, meticulously crafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland, Ghana, West Africa. These exquisite beads beautifully imitate old Fancy Venetian glass trade beads, bringing a touch of history and elegance to your jewelry designs.

The strand measures approximately 23 1/4" (59 cm) in length, featuring beads that are around 13 mm in diameter.

• Length of strand: 23 1/4" (59 cm)
• Bead diameter: 13 mm

Each bead is carefully made from recycled glass, sourced from bottles and other glass items. The glass is ground into powder, which is then molded to create these attractive beads. This process not only showcases the incredible craftsmanship of the Krobo people but also emphasizes sustainable practices.

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 Krobo people of Ghana employ traditional techniques to create these unique fancy glass beads. The process begins with grinding recycled glass into a fine powder. This powder is then carefully placed into clay molds to form the desired bead shapes.

Decoration

What sets fancy beads apart is their detailed decoration. Artisans use a mix of glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to produce intricate patterns and vibrant designs. Using metal or wooden tools, they etch or paint detailed motifs onto the beads, adding to their uniqueness.

Firing

The decorated beads are then fired in a kiln. The high temperatures fuse the glass powder and set the designs, giving the beads their final form. This method ensures that each bead is not only beautiful but also durable.

The Significance of Trade Beads

Trade beads have a rich history in Ghana and across Africa. They were historically used as a form of currency and a means of cultural exchange. Today, they continue to symbolize heritage, craftsmanship, and artistry, making them highly valued by collectors and jewelry makers worldwide.

Explore our collection of new African Krobo glass beads here.

Discover our archive of African-made beads here.

Watch how the Krobo beads are made in this video.