Beautiful African Trade Beads - 22.5" Krobo Recycled Glass Beads

Discover the beauty of our African trade beads with this stunning strand of Krobo glass beads from Ghana, West Africa. Each bead is handcrafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland, who meticulously create these pieces using traditional techniques.

This beautiful strand imitates the old Venetian DISKS trade beads and is approximately 22 1/2" (57 cm) long. The beads measure 13 - 14 mm in diameter, making them a perfect addition to your unique jewelry creations.

Our Krobo glass beads are made from recycled glass bottles and other glass items, which are crushed into a fine powder. This powder is then placed into molds and heated to form the beautiful beads you see here. Each bead is 100% handmade, ensuring that every strand is unique.

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

About the Technique:

The creation of recycled glass beads is a time-honored tradition in Kroboland, Ghana. The artisans collect discarded glass bottles and other glass items, which are then crushed into a fine powder. This powder is carefully poured into clay molds and heated in kilns to form the beads. After cooling, the beads are hand-painted with intricate designs and heated again to set the patterns. This meticulous process not only recycles glass but also preserves an important aspect of Ghanaian culture and heritage.

Trade beads have played a significant role in the history of Ghana and Africa as a whole. These beads were historically used as a form of currency and trade, symbolizing wealth and social status. Today, they continue to be cherished for their beauty and cultural significance, making them a valuable addition to any collection.

Explore more of our beautiful Krobo glass beads:

• New African Krobo Glass Beads Collection
• Sold African Made Beads in the Archives
• Watch how Krobo beads are made