Tribalgh

African Trade Beads: Fancy Powder Glass Beads, 13mm, Handmade in Ghana

Bring the vibrant artistry of West Africa to your collection with this stunning strand of NEW Fancy Powder Glass African Trade Beads. Handcrafted by the skilled artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, these beads are a modern interpretation of historic Venetian trade beads, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and timeless craftsmanship of the Krobo people.

Product Details:

Strand Length: Approx. 26 1/4 inches (67 cm)
Bead Diameter: Approx. 13 mm
Material: Recycled glass bottles and other glass items
Craftsmanship: 100% Handmade

Each bead is skillfully crafted from recycled glass, first ground into fine powder and then shaped in clay molds. Once molded, the beads are decorated with intricate patterns using a combination of natural dyes, powdered glass, and hand tools to achieve their striking designs.

Decoration and Technique

What sets these fancy Krobo beads apart is their vibrant decoration. Artisans use traditional tools—such as wooden picks or metal styluses—to etch or paint beautiful motifs. These designs echo the artistry of Venetian fancy beads while maintaining a distinctly African character.

The beads are fired in earthen kilns at high temperatures, fusing the powdered glass and locking in their detailed patterns. This careful process ensures every bead is unique while maintaining the strand’s cohesive beauty.

Cultural Significance

In Ghana and across Africa, trade beads hold immense cultural and historical importance. Used historically as currency, for adornment, and in rituals, they symbolize a rich heritage of craftsmanship and storytelling. The Krobo people have upheld this tradition, blending innovation and cultural preservation to create beads that honor the past while embracing the future.

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

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