Old Strand of Awale Venetian Chevron Beads, Blue & Black Stripe

This is a rare and authentic old strand of large-size "Awale" Venetian Chevron trade beads, made from drawn glass and used in the African trade during the early 1900s. The strand features a striking mix of blue-striped and black-striped Chevron beads, each with its own unique character and charm.

• Strand Length: 28 1/4" (72 cm)
• Bead Size: 7–9 mm in diameter

• Condition: Very good – some beads show light chipping from age and use
• Used in the African trade, early 1900s

The Awale Chevron beads are a distinctive style within the broader Chevron family, crafted through the Venetian drawn glass method. These beads were pulled into long tubes, then cut and fire-polished, resulting in smooth edges and a bold layered pattern of stripes. This strand offers a vibrant and historic example of early 20th-century beadwork, ideal for collectors, designers, or cultural enthusiasts.

History and Value of Venetian Chevron Beads

Chevron beads-also called Rosetta beads-originated in Venice in the late 1400s, primarily produced on the island of Murano. Venetian artisans used a process known as the cane drawing technique to layer colored glass, form star or stripe patterns, and shape the beads into the forms we treasure today.

Beads like these were widely traded throughout Africa, where they were valued not only as currency but also for adornment, ceremony, and symbolism. The Awale style, with its alternating striped colors, stands out as a beautiful and meaningful variation of the classic Chevron lineage.

Explore our current offerings of rare and antique Chevron beads:
🡆 View Our Current Chevron Beads Collection

Curious about past treasures? Visit our archives to see previously sold Venetian, Czech, and African beads:
🡆 Visit the Bead Archives