Antique White Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads, 12mm African Gems

Five beautiful antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads featuring a stunning white base with intricate floral designs. These historic beads were crafted in Venice, Italy, and played a pivotal role in the African trade during the early 1900s. They are a rare and highly collectible find, perfect for jewelry making or bead enthusiasts.

• Size: 12 mm x 7-8 mm
• Condition: Excellent, with no noticeable chips or cracks

Millefiori, meaning "a thousand flowers," refers to the exquisite technique used to create these beads. Venetian artisans skillfully layered colored glass canes, slicing them to reveal floral and geometric patterns before embedding them into a molten glass base. This meticulous craftsmanship ensured vibrant, long-lasting designs. These beads were highly sought after in African trade, particularly in Ghana, where they held cultural and economic significance. They were often used in exchanges, ceremonies, and as symbols of wealth and status.

Explore more antique Venetian beads and discover their unique stories:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Antique Trade Beads for Sale
• Archived Millefiori Trade Beads