The "sandcasting" beads process was developed in Africa in the 1600s. Pulverized glass is poured into a clay mold, and a cassava stem is placed to create the bead's hollow core. The mold is then placed in a furnace where the glass congeals without ever melting, and the cassava stem burns out. The colorful Sandcast African Trade Beads Mixed are frequently strung together and used as waistbands in Ghana, where they are created. Each varies in size, shape, and style.
