Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass African Trade Beads

Three beautiful matching rare OLD Venetian Millefiori mosaic glass trade beads, dating back to the late 1800s to early 1900s, embodying exceptional craftsmanship and historic significance. These exquisite beads are highly sought after by collectors and artisans alike.

• Size of beads: Approximately 20 mm x 9 mm.

• Condition: Very good condition with minimal signs of wear, showcasing their age and authenticity.

These Millefiori beads, meaning "a thousand flowers" in Italian, were meticulously handcrafted in Venice, Italy, using the ancient glassmaking technique. Layers of colorful glass canes were fused together, then sliced to reveal intricate floral and geometric patterns, creating the distinctive mosaic appearance.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, such beads played a pivotal role in African trade, particularly in Ghana and West Africa. Highly valued by local communities, they were used as currency, symbols of status, and in traditional adornments. Today, they remain treasured for their historical importance and artistic beauty.

Explore more exceptional trade beads and Millefiori beads in our collections:

• Browse Millefiori Mosaic Beads
• Explore Trade Beads Collection
• View Archived Millefiori Beads