Tribalgh

NEW African Powder Glass Beads - Fancy Krobo Beads 11mm, 26" Strand

Add a touch of authentic African craftsmanship to your collection with this stunning strand of powder glass beads, handmade by the talented artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These beads imitate the intricate designs of old Venetian fancy trade beads, making them a unique and vibrant addition to your jewelry projects or bead collection.

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

These exquisite beads are crafted from recycled bottles and other glass items, which are ground into powder before being transformed into molds. The result is a strand of environmentally-friendly beads that showcase both sustainability and creativity. As each bead is 100% handmade, slight variations in size, shape, and pattern add to their charm and authenticity.

Crafting Process and Cultural Significance

The people of Kroboland in Ghana have perfected the art of bead-making over generations. Using traditional techniques, they first crush glass bottles and other discarded glass into a fine powder. The powdered glass is then carefully packed into molds and fired in clay kilns, ensuring each bead takes on its unique shape and color. Once the beads are formed, artisans apply intricate patterns using natural dyes, glass fragments, and hand-etched designs. Wooden or metal tools are often used to add decorative details that make these beads truly stand out.

After decoration, the beads undergo a second firing process, where high temperatures fuse the powdered glass and solidify the designs. This meticulous craftsmanship gives each bead its vibrant colors and long-lasting finish, reflecting the rich history and cultural importance of trade beads in Ghana and across Africa. Powder glass beads not only tell the story of sustainable artistry but also hold a timeless significance as symbols of trade, culture, and identity in African communities.

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

Explore more about these fascinating beads and their history through the links below: