African Trade Beads - 11mm Ghana Glass Beads, Recycled

Discover the allure of African trade beads with this beautiful strand of new glass (fragments) beads, expertly handmade by the artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These beads beautifully imitate the historic "Dutch Annular" glass trade beads, adding a touch of heritage and elegance to your collection.

• Strand Length: 21" (53.5 cm)
• Bead Size: Approximately 11 mm in diameter

Each bead is meticulously crafted from glass fragments, which are placed into molds to form these exquisite beads. This process not only creates stunning beads but also promotes environmental sustainability by using recycled materials. The beads are 100% handmade, showcasing the skill and dedication of the Krobo artisans.

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

The creation of these Krobo beads involves several detailed steps:

• Collection and Preparation: Glass bottles and other glass items are collected, cleaned, and broken into small fragments.
• Molding: The glass fragments are placed into clay molds, which determine the shape and size of the beads.
• Firing: The molds with the glass fragments are fired in a kiln at high temperatures, fusing the fragments together while preserving their original colors and translucency.
• Finishing: After cooling, the beads are removed from the molds and polished to smooth out any rough edges.

These vibrant beads are not only a testament to the artisans' craftsmanship but also hold significant cultural value in Ghanaian society, often used in ceremonies and as symbols of status and identity.

Explore more of our exquisite Krobo glass beads and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage they represent:

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