Blue Gooseberry Chevron Beads | Round 6 Layer Venetian Trade Set

Offered is a beautiful set of six round 6-layer blue Venetian Chevron trade beads, often referred to as “Gooseberry” beads. These antique glass beads were made in the early 1900s using the traditional drawn technique and were used extensively in African trade.

Featuring unmolded layers and a smooth, rounded surface, these beads exhibit a deep blue hue with delicate internal layering that creates the subtle striated effect associated with Gooseberry-style Chevrons. Their small size and spherical form make them especially versatile for jewelry or collecting.

• Bead Size: Approximately 7 mm in diameter

• Condition: Excellent antique condition

History & Craftsmanship

Chevron beads, also known as Rosetta beads, were first created in Venice on the island of Murano in the late 15th century. These beads were produced using the "drawn cane" method-stacking layers of different colored molten glass into star-shaped molds, drawing them into canes, and slicing them into beads. While many Chevrons were faceted or ground to reveal their starburst ends, this particular variety was left unmolded and reheated, giving it a smooth, organic finish.

The nickname “Gooseberry” comes from the fine, thread-like internal striations that resemble the veining on gooseberries. These beads were especially popular in the early 1900s African trade, where they were exchanged for goods and held symbolic and decorative value across many cultures.

This set of six beads offers a rare glimpse into the beauty and simplicity of Venetian glass artistry and their important role in historical global trade.

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