Ethnic Design Collection Reto Zehnder

Nila (meaning “blue”) Beads found near Djenné in Mali.  Their origin is unknown,  but scholars guess they proceeded from Europe or the Middle East and arrived in West Africa through trade routes crossing the Sahara many centuries ago. The beads have a matte finish having been burried in the sands for Centuries. They all have their individual character as none of them are alike. These beads hark back to a time when beads traveled the Trade Routes and are approximately 1000 years old.

These beads are also called "Dardig" beads (in Mali). They were excavated from the sands of the desert after trading caravans got stranded and left them there. They are several hundred to a thousand years old. A beautiful mixed array of ocean colours the characteristic patina that ancient buried glass takes on.

Nila (meaning “blue”) Beads found near Djenné in Mali.  Their origin is unknown,  but scholars guess they proceeded from Europe or the Middle East and arrived in West Africa through trade routes crossing the Sahara many centuries ago. The beads have a matte finish having been burried in the sands for Centuries. They all have their individual character as none of them are alike. These beads hark back to a time when beads traveled the Trade Routes and are approximately 1000 years old.

Nila (meaning “blue”) Beads found near Djenné in Mali.  Their origin is unknown,  but scholars guess they proceeded from Europe or the Middle East and arrived in West Africa through trade routes crossing the Sahara many centuries ago. The beads have a matte finish having been burried in the sands for Centuries. They all have their individual character as none of them are alike. These beads hark back to a time when beads traveled the Trade Routes and are approximately 1000 years old.