Necklace, 2-strand Ghana King beads/brass with 5 king bead drops

This necklace is made using 18th century Krobo, Bodom, or King beads from southern Ghana which were believed to have medicinal or magical powers. They were originally introduced to Ghana by European traders to used them to barter for commodities and slaves. These beads were used to trade specifically for gold and were highly valued. They are used to this day in the ceremonial dress of Ghanaian chiefs such as of the Akan people. The necklace also comprises handmade brass beads from Ethiopia and handmade glass from Indonesia. Both countries have long histories of bead making which continues to this day.
Length: approx 70 cm / 27 inches