Product Description: This strand of Kankanba beads from Bohemian glass in the Czech Republic includes beads that glow under black light. Kankanba beads, produced about 100 years ago for export to African countries, are known for their vibrant colors and embossed designs. This particular strand features a combination of red, two shades of green, and blue beads. The lighter green beads are made of uranium glass, which fluoresces brilliantly under black light. The beads are strung together and can be worn as a necklace.

Specifications:

• Origin: Czech Republic
• Estimated Production Period: 19th to 20th century
• Bead Size: Diameter: 6mm, Thickness: 4mm
• Materials: Glass, Thread
• Length (including string): 60cm
• Special Notes:
  • While the beads are strung together and can be worn as a necklace, there is no guarantee of durability as they are simply threaded.

Important Notes:

As this is an antique item, it may have scratches, cracks, chips, or stains. Images are for illustrative purposes only, and the actual product may vary in pattern and color. Please allow for slight measurement discrepancies.

Other Trade Beads:

Trade beads were passionately adored as adornments by kings and nobles during the African slave trade era. These beads, predominantly made in Venice and the Czech Republic (Bohemian glass), were traded globally, including in Africa, in exchange for slaves, gold, ivory, and other goods. The manufacturing techniques of these glass beads were kept highly secret, and craftsmen were often barred from moving freely. Unlike those made for the European market, trade beads were tailored to the preferences of various tribes, resulting in a diverse array of large and small, patterned and plain beads.