Oval Krobo Powder Glass Beads - African Recycled Trade Beads

Handmade Oval Powder Glass Beads - Ghana Krobo Recycled Trade Beads

These striking oval powder glass African trade beads are meticulously handcrafted by the Krobo people of Ghana. Each bead is made from recycled glass bottles, transformed into powder, and then molded using traditional techniques to mimic the vintage charm of old Venetian "Fancy" trade beads.

Bead Details:

• Strand Length: Approx. 23.5" (60 cm)
• Bead Size: 10-11 mm in diameter
• Shape: Oval

Featuring bold black, red, and white striping, these Ghana glass beads blend heritage with artistry, making them a vibrant choice for jewelry-making, decor, or collectors of African trade beads.

Each bead is 100% handmade, making every strand one-of-a-kind and full of character.

About the Powder Glass Bead-Making Tradition in Ghana

The Krobo artisans of Ghana use centuries-old techniques to produce these powder glass beads, specifically the "core design" or "mold-inlaid" method. Crushed recycled glass is packed into clay molds and fired in outdoor kilns. Natural dyes and intricate hand-painting techniques are then used to decorate the beads with vivid patterns.

Powder glass beads are more than just ornaments they're carriers of culture. These African trade beads played a vital role in commerce and social rituals across West Africa, symbolizing wealth, status, and storytelling through design. Today, they remain a cherished part of African identity and craftsmanship.

➡️ Explore more from our New African Krobo Glass Beads collection
➡️ Discover unique archived pieces in our African Made Beads Archives
➡️ Learn how Krobo beads are made by watching this video on YouTube