Tribalgh

African King Bicone Powder Glass Beads – Recycled Glass Art

Experience the elegance of African artistry with this beautiful strand of NEW powder glass beads, handmade by the skilled artisans of Kroboland in Ghana, West Africa. Inspired by the iconic old Venetian bicone "King" glass trade beads, these eco-friendly beads embody tradition, creativity, and sustainability.

Key Details:

Strand Length: Approx. 27.5" (70 cm)
Bead Size: 17–18 mm in diameter
Material: Recycled glass

Every bead is crafted from recycled bottles and other glass items that are ground into powder, carefully molded, and transformed into unique works of art.

The Technique Behind Krobo Beads

The Krobo people of Ghana are renowned for their beadmaking expertise, a tradition that has been passed down for generations. To create these beads, artisans crush glass into a fine powder, pour it into clay molds, and arrange it to achieve the desired shape and size. This eco-friendly process highlights their commitment to sustainability while producing stunning designs.

Decoration: What sets these beads apart is their intricate detailing. Artisans blend glass fragments, powdered glass, and natural dyes to craft vibrant patterns. Using wooden or metal tools, they etch or paint motifs that reflect Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.

Firing: The beads are then fired in a kiln. High temperatures fuse the glass powder and lock the designs in place, creating durable, eye-catching pieces.

Trade beads, like these, have played a significant role in African history, serving as symbols of wealth, culture, and identity. Today, they remain prized for their beauty and the craftsmanship they represent.

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

Explore more of TribalGH's beautiful Krobo bead collections: