Tribalgh

African Trade Beads: Krobo Glass & Brass Beads, 28" Strand

Handmade African Trade Beads – Mixed Krobo Glass & Brass Beads, 28” Strand

This beautiful strand showcases a harmonious mix of recycled Krobo glass beads and handcrafted Ashanti brass beads, all made in Ghana, West Africa. Inspired by old Venetian fancy trade beads, each bead on this strand is a tribute to traditional African craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

Strand Length: 28 inches (71 cm)
Bead Size: 9–24 mm in diameter

Every glass bead is handmade in Kroboland using a centuries-old technique. Recycled bottles and glass items are ground into powder and poured into clay molds, often designed with leaf impressions. The molds are baked in a kiln to fuse the glass, resulting in vibrant, one-of-a-kind beads with rich textures and patterns.

Complementing the glass are traditional Ashanti brass beads from Kumasi, crafted using the ancient lost wax casting technique. This process involves sculpting each bead from wax, encasing it in clay, and then heating it so the wax melts and leaves a cavity. Molten brass is poured into this mold to create stunning beads with intricate designs. Each mold is destroyed to release the bead, making every piece unique and irreplaceable.

Trade beads have played a crucial role in African history, especially in Ghana, where they were used as currency, for ceremonial purposes, and to symbolize social status. Today, they continue to tell stories of cultural resilience, artistic excellence, and the dynamic spirit of African artisans.

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