Authentic Old Akoso Powder Glass Beads – Venetian Green Heart

AUTHENTIC Old AKOSO Powder Glass Trade Beads with Venetian Green Heart

Discover an exquisite set of eight vintage Akoso glass beads, each handcrafted in Krobo, Ghana, between the late 1800s and early 1900s. These rare African trade beads feature a stunning Venetian green-heart inlay, showcasing the legendary craftsmanship that made old Ghana powder glass beads so influential. Condition is very good, with vibrant coloration and intact structure.

• Length: 9–12 mm
• Diameter: 7 mm

Each bead in this collection is a testament to authentic powder glass traditions from West Africa. The green heart detail reflects a unique cultural exchange Venetian glassmakers later emulated this motif, inspired by original Akoso beads that were pivotal in trade along the Ghana coast.

These beads were used in African trade from the late 1800s to the early 1900s, carrying profound historical significance. Their resilience and vivid color embody both cultural heritage and artistry.

Crafting Technique & Historical Importance

The Krobo people of Ghana pioneered the traditional method of making Akoso powder glass beads by crushing post-consumer glass into a fine powder, pressing it into clay molds, and fusing it over fire. This ancient labor-intensive process yields the densely colored, matte-finish beads prized across Africa. The green heart inlay is a hallmark of authentic Akoso craftsmanship, later emulated by Venetian producers seeking to replicate the style.

Akoso beads were integral to trade networks during the European colonization era. Often exchanged for textiles, metals, and other goods, these African trade beads reinforced social status and cultural identity. Today, they remain powerful symbols of West African heritage and artistry.

Explore more treasures from TribalGH:
New African Krobo Glass Beads Collection
Archives: Sold African-Made Beads
Watch how Krobo artists produce their beads