Blue 6-Layer Gooseberry Venetian Chevron Beads 7mm - Antique

Presenting a beautiful strand of Ten (10) large round Venetian Chevron glass trade beads, also affectionately known as "Gooseberry" beads. These authentic antique Chevron beads are a rare 6-layer variety, drawn and crafted in Venice using a centuries-old technique that highlights their rich blue hues and striking starburst cores.

Each bead features unmolded layers, a hallmark of early Venetian craftsmanship. Their clean, round shape and even coloration make them a highly collectible piece of African trade bead history.

• Size: Approximately 7 mm in diameter

• Condition: Excellent antique condition

These Old Chevron beads were produced in Venice in the early 1900s and traded extensively throughout Africa, where they were cherished as symbols of wealth, status, and cultural identity.

🌍 History, Value & Craftsmanship:

Venetian Chevron beads, also known as Rosetta beads, were first created in Venice during the late 15th century using a technique called the "drawn glass" method. This involved fusing multiple layers of colored glass canes, shaping them into starburst patterns, and then drawing them into long rods. Once cooled, these rods were sliced into individual beads, creating the distinct multi-layered Chevron design.

These Antique Chevron beads hold both historical and aesthetic value. They were highly prized in trade across West Africa and were used not only as currency but also in ceremonial adornments. Collectors and jewelry designers alike continue to seek these beads for their bold colors, intricate patterns, and cultural heritage.

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