For his entire working life Garbe Mohammed has sold and traded beads. All across West Africa, he has sought rarities and thee may not be a man alive who knows more about this ancient currency.

His grandfather and father were also bead merchants and they passed the passion to their son who finds beads for others but also has a precious personal collection.

In the 16th century these amazing glass beads were used for trade, but also doubled as ballast on the way out of harbour! They purchased spices and more, they were currency!

Collectors come from the world over for these beautiful antiques and new creations, they are worth their money for their beauty and the skill it takes to produce them and their history is absolutely fascinating.

In the below video you can see Mohammed and learn more about these amazing beads.

Learn more on World Remit: http://worldremit.tumblr.com/post/147994900709/how-beads-made-the-world-go-round