Krobo Glass & Lost Wax Brass Beads Strand - African Trade Beads

Mixed African Trade Beads - Krobo Glass & Lost Wax Brass, Handmade in Ghana

This vibrant strand of Krobo glass and brass beads blends tradition and craftsmanship, celebrating the artistry of Ghanaian bead-making. Inspired by antique Venetian fancy trade beads, each bead on this strand is uniquely crafted by skilled artisans in Ghana.

• Strand Length: 27 3/4 inches (70.5 cm)
• Bead Size: 8-13 mm in diameter
• Material: Recycled glass & solid brass
• Origin: Ghana, West Africa

The glass beads are meticulously handcrafted in Kroboland, Ghana, using time-honored methods passed down for generations. Local artisans crush discarded glass bottles and other glass materials into fine powder, which is then poured into hand-carved clay molds. These molds are fired in kilns made from termite clay, fusing the powdered glass into solid, colorful beads. This eco-conscious method not only preserves tradition but also transforms waste into beauty.

The brass beads come from the Ashanti region (Kumasi, Ghana) and are made using the ancient lost wax casting technique. Each bead begins with a wax model that is coated in clay to create a mold. Once fired, the wax melts away, leaving a cavity into which molten brass is poured. The mold is broken open to reveal a one-of-a-kind brass bead. This labor-intensive method guarantees that no two beads are exactly alike, making each strand truly unique.

Trade beads have long held cultural and economic importance throughout West Africa. These beads are more than ornaments they’re part of Ghana’s rich heritage, exchanged for centuries in trade and worn during ceremonies. Today, TribalGH proudly continues this legacy by offering you authentic, handmade strands that celebrate the spirit of Africa.

View our full collection of new African Krobo Glass Beads
Explore our sold bead archive collection
Watch how Krobo beads are made in Ghana