Rare Antique Green Banded Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead

Discover this rare antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead, a stunning example of the artistry from Venice, Italy. Its unique green banded pattern and historic charm make it an exceptional addition to any bead collection.

Size: Length: 30 mm Diameter: 10 mm

Condition: Very good - Slightly beveled edges and light chipping at the ends, typical for its age and use.

This bead dates back to the early 1900s and was crafted using the intricate millefiori (or "thousand flowers") technique. Artisans meticulously layered molten glass canes, which were sliced into cross-sections to reveal vibrant floral or geometric patterns. These slices were then fused onto a glass core, creating the mosaic effect seen in this bead.

Such beads played a significant role in the African trade, particularly in Ghana, where they were highly valued for their beauty and as symbols of wealth and status. These antique trade beads carry a legacy of cultural exchange and craftsmanship, making them both historically and aesthetically significant.

Explore more exceptional beads here:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Antique Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive