Tribalgh
Large Kenya Bone Beads - African Batik Beads 19-25mm Round
Large Kenya Bone Beads - African Batik Beads 19-25mm Round
Large Handmade African Batik Bone Trade Beads from Kenya
Discover the bold elegance of these Large Handmade African Batik Bone Beads — a striking representation of Kenya’s traditional craftsmanship. Handcrafted in East Africa from ethically sourced cow bone, each bead carries the legacy of centuries-old beadmaking practices passed down through generations.
This strand features beautifully rounded batik-style beads, showcasing a rich dark brown to black base contrasted with hand-dyed, earthy white batik patterns. These tribal-style designs feature eye motifs and swirling lines, created using a wax-resist dyeing technique that makes each bead completely unique.
Perfect for statement jewelry, mixed-media artwork, or collectors of authentic African trade beads.
Bead Specifications:
- Bead Size: 19-25 mm diameter
- Strand Length: 25.5 inches (65 cm)
- Shape: Large, rounded barrel-shaped
- Design: Traditional batik eye pattern in black & white
What Are Bone Beads?
Bone beads have been an integral part of African culture for centuries. In Kenya, artisans primarily use cow bone — a byproduct of local farming — which is cleaned, cut, shaped, and hand-dyed using the traditional batik wax-resist technique. This process involves applying wax patterns to the bone before submerging them in natural dyes, resulting in the bold designs you see here.
These beads aren’t just beautiful — they’re steeped in meaning. African trade beads like these have long been used as currency, for ceremonial purposes, and as a symbol of status and heritage across various African cultures. Today, they remain treasured for their artistry, history, and ethical craftsmanship.
Each strand from TribalGH supports the preservation of traditional skills and sustainable practices within African communities.
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