10 Strand White Heart Bead Necklace Burkina Faso MATTER COLLECTION

This striking 10-strand necklace from Burkina Faso features vibrant white heart trade beads beautifully strung on aged fiber cord. The rich orange-red beads, with their distinctive white core, are classic “white hearts” — prized trade beads that have circulated throughout West Africa for generations.

Each strand is individually knotted along a dark, naturally worn cord, creating wonderful texture and movement. The layering of ten strands gives the necklace impressive volume while maintaining a lightweight, organic feel. The contrast between the vivid beads and the earthy cord gives the piece both bold color and rustic authenticity. It has a knotted leather toggle as a closure.

White heart beads have long been used in West African adornment and exchange, valued for their beauty and symbolism. Worn together in multiple strands, they create a powerful statement piece that sits gracefully at the collar.

A beautiful example of traditional Burkinabé adornment, this necklace is perfect worn alone as a dramatic focal piece or layered for an even more dynamic look.

Provenance: Matter Collection

From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much. 

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