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Authentic Old Gashi Powder Glass Beads 11-13mm | African Trade
Authentic Old Gashi Powder Glass Beads 11-13mm | African Trade
Authentic Old Ghanaian Powder Glass Trade Beads
Discover the timeless beauty of these authentic old African powder glass beads, handcrafted in the early 1900s by the skilled artisans of Kroboland, Ghana. These rare recycled glass beads, also known as sandcast beads or Old Gashi Beads, were originally created for use in regional trade across West Africa.
Each bead is rich in character, bearing gentle signs of age and use that add to their charm. Their subtle cream tone with distinctive hand-applied red, black, and gray striping make them a striking example of historical African trade beads.
Bead Details
- Bead Size: 11–13 mm in diameter
- Strand Length: 29.5" (75 cm)
Handmade with Tradition and Meaning
These Ghana glass beads are not only beautiful adornments but also carry deep cultural and historical significance. Handmade using centuries-old Krobo traditions, they embody the spirit of sustainable artistry and heritage.
How Krobo Powder Glass Beads Are Made
The Krobo people use a traditional method called the core design or mold-inlaid technique to create powder glass beads. Finely crushed recycled glass is poured into clay molds, often around a cassava stem to form the bead hole. Natural dyes and hand-painted patterns are applied before firing in a kiln. This eco-conscious technique has been passed down through generations and continues to support artisan communities in Ghana today.
Powder glass beads were essential components of West African trade, symbolizing status, wealth, and cultural exchange. Today, they remain celebrated across the globe for their craftsmanship and rich history.
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