African Trade Beads: Fancy Krobo Powder Glass Beads, 10-11mm

A stunning strand of NEW powder glass African beads, handcrafted by the skilled artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These beads beautifully imitate the intricate designs of old Venetian fancy trade beads, making them a true collector’s item.

• Strand Length: Approximately 25.5" (65 cm)
• Bead Size: 10-11 mm in diameter

These unique beads are made entirely by hand using recycled materials, including bottles and other glass items. The glass is crushed into a fine powder, placed into molds, and carefully fired to create these exquisite beads. Their vibrant colors and detailed designs are perfect for jewelry making, crafts, or as an addition to your African trade bead collection.

Technique & Tradition

The Krobo people of Ghana are renowned for their centuries-old bead-making techniques. Powder glass beads are crafted by crushing recycled glass into a fine powder and placing it into hand-carved clay molds. Natural dyes and pigments are added to create rich, vivid colors. To achieve the distinctive patterns of fancy beads, artisans etch or paint intricate motifs using metal or wooden tools. Once decorated, the beads are fired in a traditional kiln, where the high temperatures fuse the glass powder and permanently set the designs.

Trade beads like these hold cultural and historical significance in Ghana and throughout Africa. Once used as currency, they are now celebrated as a symbol of heritage and artistry, connecting us to a rich history of craftsmanship and trade.

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

Discover more unique African beads from TribalGH: Shop the New African Krobo Glass Beads | Browse Sold African Beads in the Archives | Watch How Krobo Beads Are Made