Five Antique Banded Millefiori Mosaic Glass African Trade Beads

Five Antique Banded Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads

These exquisite Venetian mosaic glass beads showcase a stunning banded millefiori pattern, crafted with intricate detail in the early 1900s. These beads played a significant role in the African trade and are a treasure for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.

• Bead Sizes: 11-12 mm in length, 8 mm in diameter.
• Condition: Excellent, showing no signs of damage or wear despite their age.

Millefiori beads, also known as mosaic beads, are painstakingly crafted using a specialized glass-making technique originating in Venice, Italy. The process involves layering colorful canes of glass, slicing them into intricate patterns, and fusing them to create the final bead. These beautiful beads not only display extraordinary craftsmanship but also hold immense historical significance.

Widely traded in Ghana and other parts of Africa, Venetian trade beads served as symbols of wealth and status. These beads were cherished for their vibrant designs and durability, making them highly sought after in cultural and economic exchanges.

Explore our extensive collection of antique and historical trade beads, and find the perfect piece to add to your collection:

• Millefiori Mosaic Beads for Sale
• Old Trade Beads for Sale
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive