Sunday, July 29, 2018

Characteristics Worth Knowing About African Trade Beads

By Richard Hall


When you have an interest in opening an establishment that deals with ornaments, you must have in mind the type you want to engage in. If you need to open an outlet that sells African trade beads then there are certain characteristics that you can use to identify a real make. When you move into the market blindly, you may end up getting the wrong thing into your shop. Do not be surprised when you spend a month without even making a sale. Read the things to look out for in such accessories.

Most of these beads are in demand just because the quality is a guarantee. One significant way to identify one is to check out for the possibilities of being dusty and even dirt at some time. Most of them were not reserved in clean areas and this is the reason so much dust got ingrained in them.

Another important feature to look out for is the line of symmetry in them. Most are uneven and non-symmetrical hence this can be a clear indication that you are not paying too much for a replica. Most of the modern ones are known to have an even finish something that differentiates them from the African ones.

Most early used beads are a bit heavy as compared to the new ones in the market. This is a characteristic that you can use in identifying a replica. If it is very light, then that one is not the right type that you are looking for. Be careful especially when the weighs have been measured out for you. You can always insist for a repeat once you want to make a purchase.

Whenever you move into the many shops you will find that most of them have certain information that talks more about their exact origin. If you come across a seller who cannot explain for you the source then continue with your search until you find a dealer who has all the real factual information pertaining the bead. This information should be extensive enough in order to be fully convincing.

The design is another thing that you cannot leave out. Ensure that you confirm everything that pertains it in order to be confident that you are working with the right dealer. Most of them you will find them in strings. Confirm if any writings on the surface are exact to the next one on the same line. Small variations depict African makes.

The color is something else that you should never ignore to confirm. As long as you have used an accessory for the past years it is very easy to differentiate between a recently purchased one and an old one. The one that has had a long time in use will definitely be faded. This is a common characteristic of African made vintages.

If you touch most of them, you will realize that they are not as smooth as the recent ones. If you do not have an idea on how such a texture feels look for a friend or a colleague who has a possession of one. You can use that knowledge when making your purchases. If you are not in the position, you can use their expertise to help you in the selection process.




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