Large Round Polychrome Kiffa Beads – Handcrafted in Mauritania

Large Round Polychrome Kiffa Beads – Handcrafted Mauritanian Beads

These seven large round polychrome Kiffa beads are an exquisite representation of traditional Mauritanian bead-making. Crafted using ancient powder glass techniques, these beads display striking red, yellow, blue, green, and black hues with intricate, hand-painted geometric patterns. Their bold and colorful appearance makes them an exceptional addition to any bead collection or jewelry design.

Size:

• Diameter: 14-15 mm

Condition:

• Very good condition – A fine recent example of traditional Kiffa bead craftsmanship.

History & Craftsmanship:

Kiffa beads, also known as Murakad beads, originate from the town of Kiffa in Mauritania. These extraordinary beads are made using an ancient technique where finely ground glass powder is skillfully shaped by hand and fused using fire, without the need for molds or kilns. This labor-intensive process has been passed down for generations, traditionally crafted by skilled Mauritanian women.

Renowned for their vibrant colors and artistic craftsmanship, Kiffa beads are highly prized among collectors and jewelry designers for their uniqueness and cultural significance.

Explore more unique Kiffa beads in our collection here: Kiffa Beads Collection

Browse our archives for a variety of sold Venetian, Czech, and other African trade beads: Bead Archives