Rare 6-Layer Chevron "Dog Bone" Venetian Trade Beads Pair

Rare Matching Pair of 6-Layer Chevron "Dog Bone" Venetian Glass Beads

This exquisite matching pair of antique Venetian Chevron trade beads, often affectionately referred to as "Dog Bone" or "Gooseberry" style, is a true collector’s gem. These rare six-layer Rosetta beads are beautifully crafted and referenced in Picard VII, page 72, bead 696-making them not only decorative but historically documented.

Each bead showcases the traditional starburst pattern in vibrant layers of red, white, and blue, a hallmark of classic Venetian craftsmanship. These are not reproductions-they are authentic antique trade beads used during the early 1900s African trade era.

• Size: 13 mm x 7 mm

• Condition: Excellent - One minor air bubble (see photos)

History, Value, and Craftsmanship

Chevron beads-also known as Antique Chevron beads, Old Chevron Beads, Rosetta beads, and Venetian Chevron beads-originated in Venice, Italy in the late 15th century. These intricate glass beads were created using the millefiori technique, where colored glass canes are fused, shaped, and cut to reveal the starburst pattern.

The layered construction typically features 4 to 7 glass layers and was highly prized across West Africa, often exchanged for goods and services. Their historical importance and artistry make them highly collectible and increasingly valuable today.

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