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Handmade African Spindle Whorls - Mali Clay Beads with Etched Designs
Handmade African Spindle Whorls - Mali Clay Beads with Etched Designs
Authentic Handmade Clay Spindle Beads from Mali - Unique African Trade Beads
Discover this exquisite strand of Mali spindle beads, an outstanding example of clay spindle beads traditionally crafted in West Africa. These African spindle beads are 100% handmade, each adorned with intricately etched designs that reflect the rich artistic heritage of the region.
Originally designed as whorls to stabilize spindles in the yarn-spinning process, these spindle beads were also worn as ornaments and used in trade across Africa. This strand represents a more recent, well-preserved example of this enduring tradition. Though a few beads show very light chipping, the strand remains in very good condition and is ready for use in jewelry or collection.
Size of the strand:
- Length: Approximately 25 1/2" (65 cm)
- Bead Diameter: Ranges from 17 mm to 25 mm
These clay spindle beads carry the legacy of African artisanship and trade culture. Ideal for collectors, jewelry designers, or those seeking a piece of West African history, each bead tells a story of craftsmanship and cultural exchange.
What Are Spindle Beads?
Spindle beads—also known as African spindle beads or Mali spindle beads—were historically used as the whorl component of a spindle, a tool used to spin fibers into yarn. The beads were typically shaped from terracotta or clay and were sometimes ornately etched or painted.
Over time, these spindle whorls became valued not only for their function but also for their beauty, serving as trade beads across West Africa. Trade beads played a significant role in economic and cultural exchange in African history, representing wealth, status, and artistic tradition. Spindle beads are an enduring symbol of this legacy.
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