6 Layer Onion Skin Chevron Beads | Reheated Antique Venetian Set

Here is a stunning group of five beautiful old reheated elongated 6-layer Chevron "Onion Skin" Venetian glass trade beads, featuring unmolded layers and crafted with remarkable detail. These rare beads were created in Venice in the late 1800s to early 1900s and used in the African trade. Their elongated form and subtle, organic layering give them an elegant and highly collectible appearance.

The internal layers exhibit the classic “onion skin” effect-translucent and striated with subtle tonal shifts-created by reheating the beads after cutting to smoothen and round the surface. The absence of sharp molding enhances their soft glow and natural form.

• Bead Size: 12–13 mm (length) x 7 mm (diameter)

• Condition: Excellent antique condition

History & Craftsmanship

Chevron beads, or Rosetta beads, were produced on the island of Murano in Venice starting in the late 15th century using a process known as the drawn cane method. Layers of colored molten glass were gathered, shaped with or without molds, drawn into rods, and then sliced into beads. The ends were often ground or reheated for polishing-especially in the case of onion skin beads like these, where reheating creates a smoothed, almost organic finish that softens the starburst pattern while enhancing the depth of color.

These beads were exported to Africa, where they were valued for their craftsmanship and used as trade items, ornaments, and symbols of wealth. The reheated, unmolded versions with onion skin interiors are particularly rare and highly sought after by collectors due to their distinct appearance and artisanal quality.

This set of five beads offers a unique window into cross-continental trade, Venetian glassmaking mastery, and timeless beauty.

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