Handmade Powderglass Beads, Imitation of Venetian Rattlesnake Beads

Discover this beautiful strand of powderglass African beads, handmade by the talented people of Kroboland, Ghana. These beads are created to imitate the rare Venetian black "Rattlesnake" trade beads, a historic style highly sought after by collectors and jewelry designers.

• Strand Length: 26.5" (67 cm)
• Bead Size: 11-12 mm in diameter
• Condition: 100% handmade from recycled glass bottles and other glass items, with slight variations in size and color, adding to their uniqueness.

These beads are meticulously crafted by transforming glass bottles and other glass objects into powder, which is then placed into molds to create these stunning designs. The black coloration and pattern of the beads pay homage to the classic Venetian rattlesnake trade beads, which were a significant part of Africa’s rich bead trading history.

The technique of making powderglass beads in Ghana is a centuries-old tradition, embodying the resilience and creativity of the local artisans. Trade beads, particularly from Venice, have played a crucial role in West African trade, especially in Ghana, where these beads were exchanged for goods and used as currency. Today, both antique Venetian trade beads and their modern imitations are highly valued for their historical significance and unique beauty.

Explore more of TribalGH's stunning collections of:

• Venetian Lampwork Beads
• Old Trade Beads
• Archived Venetian Lampwork Beads