Rare 6 Layer Blue Chevron Beads | Antique Venetian Trade Glass

Offered here is a rare and beautiful group of five old 6-layer blue Venetian Chevron glass trade beads, crafted with remarkable precision in the early 1900s. These richly colored Rosetta beads are a classic example of Murano artistry and were once widely used in the African trade.

The deep blue outer layer is accented by crisp white and red starburst patterns at each end, revealing the traditional six-layer construction that defines high-quality Chevrons. Their compact form and symmetry make them especially desirable to collectors and designers alike.

• Bead Length: 12–13 mm
• Bead Diameter: 7 mm

• Condition: Excellent antique condition

History & Craftsmanship

Venetian Chevron beads-also referred to as Rosetta beads-were first produced in Venice, Italy in the late 15th century and perfected on the island of Murano by skilled glass artisans. These beads were made using a labor-intensive process known as the “drawn cane” technique. Molten layers of different colored glass were stacked in a mold and drawn into a long cane. Once cooled, the canes were sliced into beads and ground or faceted to reveal the iconic starburst pattern on each end.

The 6-layer Chevrons are especially prized for their balanced form and visual depth. During the height of European trade with Africa in the 19th and early 20th centuries, such beads were highly valued and frequently used as a form of currency, exchanged for goods, gold, and services. They also held symbolic significance and were worn as status adornments across many African cultures.

This rare blue set is a fine representation of that legacy-each bead a small but powerful testament to global history, artisanal skill, and timeless beauty.

👉 Explore our current collection of Chevron beads

📚 Visit our Archives for past Venetian, Czech, and African bead offerings