Vintage Czech Vulcanite Disk African Trade Beads 14mm

Discover the charm of these beautiful old Bohemian/Czech vulcanite disk trade beads, once a key part of African trade. These large, bold beads were crafted in Czechoslovakia in the early to mid-1900s and traveled across trade routes to West Africa, where they were highly valued by local tribes.

The strand measures approximately:

• Length: 26 1/2" (67 cm) (of beads)
• Bead Size: 14 mm in diameter

Condition: Excellent (See photos for details)

These vintage Czech vulcanite beads are a rare find, featuring their distinctive disk shape and smooth, well-worn surfaces. They were widely used in Ghana and other parts of West Africa as a form of currency, adornment, and spiritual expression.

Traditional Craftsmanship & African Trade History

These beads were meticulously molded in Czechoslovakia, using advanced glass techniques developed in Bohemia. Czech artisans mastered the art of pressing and molding glass, creating high-quality beads that rivaled Venetian production. Their innovation allowed for mass production while maintaining exquisite craftsmanship.

During the colonial era, Czech glass beads became integral to African trade. They were exchanged for gold, textiles, and other valuable goods, becoming symbols of wealth and status among Ghanaian and Nigerian traders. The bold, earthy tones and durability of these vulcanite beads made them highly desirable in African marketplaces.

Own a strand of history with these authentic Czech African trade beads, a testament to centuries of global exchange and artisanal skill.

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