Fancy African Trade Beads - Recycled Ghana Glass Beads

Fancy African Trade Beads - Recycled Ghana Glass Beads

Discover the vibrant beauty of our NEW powder glass African beads, meticulously crafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These exquisite beads, inspired by old Fancy Venetian glass trade beads, are a testament to the rich heritage and skilled craftsmanship of the Krobo people.

• Strand Length: Approximately 26" (66 cm)
• Bead Size: 10 - 11 mm in diameter

Each bead is carefully made from recycled glass bottles and other glass items. These materials are ground into a fine powder, placed into molds, and then transformed into these stunning beads. The process is entirely handmade, ensuring that each bead is unique.

YOUR STRAND WILL BE IDENTICAL TO THE STRAND SHOWN IN THE PHOTOGRAPH (GIVEN NORMAL VARIATION SINCE THESE BEADS ARE ALL COMPLETELY HANDMADE).

Handmade Craftsmanship and Cultural Significance

The creation of these fancy glass beads involves a fascinating technique perfected by the Krobo people of Ghana. Artisans begin by grinding recycled glass into a fine powder. This powder is then placed into handmade clay molds, which are often created from termite clay. The molds are arranged inside a kiln, where the beads are fired at high temperatures to fuse the glass particles.

Decoration: What sets these fancy beads apart is the detailed decoration process. Artisans use a combination of glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to create intricate patterns and vibrant designs. They may use metal or wooden tools to etch or paint detailed motifs onto the beads.

Firing: The decorated beads are then fired in a kiln. The high temperatures fuse the glass powder and set the designs in place, giving the beads their final form.

Trade beads like these have played a significant role in the history and culture of Ghana and Africa. They were used as currency, in rituals, and as symbols of wealth and status. Today, they continue to be a cherished part of African heritage, celebrated for their beauty and craftsmanship.

Explore more of our collection and discover the unique beauty of Krobo glass beads:

• New African Krobo Glass Beads Collection
• Archives of Sold African Made Beads
• Watch How Krobo Beads Are Made