Handmade Recycled Glass Beads from Africa

It is wonderful to know that in the world of beads, a simple, time-honoured tradition of glass bead-making still exists today. These beautiful handmade recycled glass beads from Ghana are certainly an example of that.

Handmade in Africa, these gorgeous beads have the look and feel of tumbled beach glass. Each one made with care and no two the same, gorgeous in their roughness and inconsistency. They range in colour from dusty soft hues to brightly painted exteriors.

These beads are a popular item in our store and have a fascinating story, adding to their appeal.

Add a unique look to your creations and know that you are supporting an entire village of glass bead-makers.

The process of creating these beads involves crushing up old glass bottles by hand, into a fine powder.

The powder is placed into molds and put inside a kiln to melt.

Once removed from the kiln, holes are made with straw pieces that burn away.

The final step is to tumble the beads to remove any powdered coating left from the molds.

They are tumbled by hand with water, small pebbles and sand.

The next step is up to you! Come in and create a beautiful, unique piece of jewellery!

 

The month of September

  Sapphire ~ September's stone

 The birthstone for September is Sapphire, a member of the Corundum family. This very hard stone ranges in colour from blue, green, orange, pink, yellow, white and black. This extreme coloration is affected by various mineral compounds forming along with aluminum oxide. 

Sapphires are said to be a stone of wisdom, royalty & integrity. Aiding in protection, good fortune, spiritual insight and wise judgement. It is also believed to help with insomnia, as it soothes the mind and body. This calmness promotes a fuller understanding of oneself.

 

VIRGO - August 23rd - September 22nd

The zodiac sign of Virgo is a practical, logical sign, often with a careful and analytical approach to life.  Virgos tend to have strong powers of observation and organization, but should guard against being overly critical - of both themselves and others, as it makes it difficult for others to live up to their extraordinarily high standards.  They are discriminating, loyal, friendly, honest & kind and take their responsibilities to their partner and family very seriously. They tend to keep a tight rein on their emotions, appearing cold and lacking in sensitivity, which sometimes makes it difficult for them to be empathetic.

Here are a few recommended semi-precious stones for people falling under this sign:

Moss Agate - for agreeability, persuasiveness and efficacy in all pursuits.

Amazonite - eliminates aggravation, soothes all chakras and aides in the treatment of nervous system disorders.

Amethyst - protective, balances the intellectual, emotional and physical bodies.

Peridot - strengthens and regenerates the body, cleanses and stimulates the heart & solar plexus chakras, bringing openness and acceptance in the intellectual pursuit of matters.

 

Sugilite - helps one to forgive oneself and others, eliminates hostility.