African Trade Beads - 12-13mm Recycled Ghana Glass Beads

Discover the beauty and craftsmanship of our NEW African trade beads, made from fused recycled glass seed beads by the skilled artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. Each bead is meticulously created to reflect the rich cultural heritage and sustainable practices of the Krobo people.

The beads in this strand are tumble rounded and polished, giving them a smooth surface that is pleasant to the touch. Perfect for creating unique jewelry pieces that tell a story.

• Strand Length: Approximately 19 3/4" (50 cm)
• Bead Size: 12 - 13 mm in diameter

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

These beads are not just beautiful; they are also a testament to the ingenious recycling techniques used by the Krobo people. The process begins with the collection and cleaning of small glass beads. These small beads are placed into clay molds, which determine the shape and size of the larger fused beads. The molds are then fired in a kiln at high temperatures, causing the small beads to fuse together to form larger beads. Once cooled, the beads are removed from the molds and polished to smooth out any rough edges.

Krobo beads are celebrated for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns. They hold significant cultural importance in Ghanaian society, often used in ceremonies and as symbols of status and identity. By choosing these beads, you are not only supporting sustainable practices but also embracing a piece of Ghanaian heritage.

Explore more of our collection of New African Krobo Glass Beads, visit our Archives of African Made Beads, or watch how these beautiful beads are made in our YouTube video.