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

Introducing a stunning strand of NEW powder glass African Krobo beads, skillfully handcrafted by the talented artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. These exquisite beads beautifully imitate the intricate designs of old Venetian Millefiori glass trade beads, making them a perfect addition to your jewelry collection.

The strand measures approximately 26 1/2" (67 cm) in length, with each bead ranging from 10 - 11 mm in diameter. Crafted from recycled bottles and other glass items, these beads undergo a meticulous process to achieve their striking appearance.

• Strand Length: 26 1/2" (67 cm)
• Bead Size: 10 - 11 mm in diameter

These beads are 100% handmade, reflecting the dedication and craftsmanship of the Krobo people.

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

Traditional Krobo Bead-Making Technique

The creation of these fancy Krobo beads involves a unique and intricate process. Artisans begin by pulverizing recycled glass into a fine powder, which is then carefully poured into clay molds. These molds are designed to shape the beads to the desired dimensions.

Decoration

What sets these fancy beads apart is the detailed decoration process. Artisans utilize a combination of glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to create intricate patterns and vibrant designs. Skilled hands employ metal or wooden tools to etch or paint detailed motifs onto each bead, resulting in a unique work of art.

Firing

The decorated beads are then fired in a kiln at high temperatures. This crucial step fuses the glass powder and sets the designs in place, giving the beads their final, polished form. The result is a durable and beautiful bead that carries the rich cultural heritage of the Krobo people.

The significance of trade beads in Ghana and across Africa cannot be overstated. These beads were historically used as a form of currency and continue to hold cultural and artistic value today. Owning a strand of Krobo beads is not only a testament to the beauty of handmade craftsmanship but also a piece of African history and tradition.

Explore more of our exquisite Krobo glass beads in the New African Krobo Glass Beads collection, discover our archived collection of African made beads, and watch a videoin YouTube showcasing how the Krobo artisans create their stunning beads.