The Curious Bead Company

“Wearable collections of beads from Africa and beyond”

Shop Announcement:

I'm selling off some of my collection of unusual beads to make some space in my workshop, so if you love beads, please take a look

Shop collections

All items by The Curious Bead Company

  • Necklace with antique Venetian trade and new African glass beads

    Necklace with antique Venet...

    The Curious Bead Company

    £55.00 £44.00 (20% off)

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  • Blue beaded necklace with chunky African glass and handmade clay beads

    Blue beaded necklace with c...

    The Curious Bead Company

    £38.00

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  • Venetian African trade bead earrings in green, white and red

    Venetian African trade bead...

    The Curious Bead Company

    £25.00

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  • Walking Boots card, print of a mixed media collage

    Walking Boots card, print o...

    The Curious Bead Company

    £2.85

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About The Curious Bead Company

The Curious Bead Company

I make jewellery using vintage and antique beads from around the world, especially Africa.

I began collecting beads on my travels through Africa many years ago. I was fascinated by the unusual colours and textures of the local beads and wanted to know more. Then I discovered the Venetian trade beads that were sent out to Africa from the late 1800s to the early 1900s and used as currency. These beads are becoming increasingly rare and usually bear the scars of their age and extensive travels. I don't mind that. I see it as a part of their history and like to wonder how many times they have changed hands and where they have spent time before they came to me. One of the joys of putting the jewellery together is in knowing that these beautiful little treasures are being recylced and starting a new chapter in their lives. Where will they go next?
When you choose a piece of jewellery from the Curious Bead Company, you are buying little pieces of history and they are yours to enjoy until you pass them on. Take good care of them - they are precious!

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