African Brass Beads

Revered for their striking whorls and geometric symmetry, African Brass Beads are second only to recycled glass as Africa's most popular bead exports. For centuries, these hand-crafted 'cage beads' doubled as a primitive form of currency in parts of Ethiopia and Ghana – ironically the two countries where this ancient art-form is seeing a widespread revival. Baoule Brass Beads continue to serve as a symbol of status in some parts of Ethiopia; many decorated with Adinkra 'sun' symbols representing peace and reverence which can only be worn by the holiest and wealthiest of tribesmen. Nearly all African Brass Beads are handmade using the “lost wax” process adopted by native craftsmen – a largely unevolved technique whereby molten metal is poured into a hardened, handmade wax cast and allowed to set. The metal adheres to the various whorls and strips of wax, which in turn begins to melt away as intense heat emanates from the ore. As it cools, the molten brass hardens, taking on the very same characteristics as the wax mold - usually a cross-hatched, ringed or woven design to support the bead's hollow structure. Ashanti Brass Beads produced by Ghanaian tribespeople are by far the most elaborate in comparison to the efforts of Ethiopia's Borana tribe, yet even these simple Kenyan Brass Beads are now highly sought after in the West. Their smooth finish, coupled with their likeness to natural Heishi Beads makes Kenyan Brass Beads a versatile choice for contemporary stringing projects – particularly single strand bracelets and drop earrings. Here at The Bead Chest, we also stock authentic Brass Tube Beads, from which many modern white metal bead designs derive.

v