1960s West African Coral & Shell Beads – Full Set

Please read full description. Open to offers on the full set. A stunning and cohesive group of six hand-crafted bead strands purchased in West Africa (likely Ghana or Nigeria) during the mid-20th century. Each strand was hand-cut, hand-drilled, and strung on cord without metal clasps — a hallmark of authentic artisan beadwork sold in African markets between the 1960s and 1980s. This collection reflects the regional heishi-style bead tradition: natural shell and coral discs, individually shaped and dyed in colors rich with symbolic meaning — red for vitality, yellow for prosperity, blue for peace, and white for purity. All strands are original and unaltered; they show natural age and variation consistent with their organic materials and handmade construction. ⸻ 💎 Individual Strands 1️⃣ Red Coral Strand • Material: Natural Mediterranean coral, hand-cut discs • Description: Deep red color, smooth edges, natural variation • Condition: Excellent vintage; no clasp (continuous strand) • Estimated Value: $90–$150 USD ⸻ 2️⃣ Red–Orange Mix Strand • Material: Dyed shell or coral blend • Description: Alternating red, orange, and yellow tones • Origin: West African artisan market, likely Ghana • Condition: Excellent • Estimated Value: $70–$100 USD ⸻ 3️⃣ Buttery Cream Strand • Material: Natural shell heishi • Description: Pale cream tone, fine texture, visible age-related cracking • Condition: Fragile; several broken beads (authentic aged shell) • Estimated Value: $25–$40 USD ⸻ 4️⃣ Golden Orange Strand • Material: Dyed shell or bone • Description: Warm amber-orange hue with subtle natural sheen • Condition: Very good vintage • Estimated Value: $50–$80 USD ⸻ 5️⃣ Blue / Turquoise Strand • Material: Dyed shell or glass (Krobo-style) • Description: Blue-green tone that shifts turquoise in light; red/yellow accent beads • Condition: Excellent • Estimated Value: $50–$80 USD ⸻ 6️⃣ Purple Multi-Color Strand • Material: Dyed shell or bone • Description: Deep plum purple base with red, yellow, and white accents • Condition: Excellent vintage • Estimated Value: $50–$90 USD ⸻ 🌍 Set Details When displayed together, the strands form a complete, complementary palette characteristic of West African bead markets — vibrant, symbolic, and deeply expressive of regional artisan craft traditions. • Total Estimated Value (if sold individually): $335–$540 USD Can offer better price for the entire set. Make me an offer.