Rare Black 4 Layer Chevron Beads | Antique Venetian Trade Set

Here is a rare and beautiful set of five old 4-layer black Venetian Chevron glass trade beads, made in the early 1900s for use in the African trade. These compact, deeply colored beads are highly collectible due to their rich black tone-an uncommon color in traditional Chevron production.

The beads feature a classic 4-layer construction with subtle starburst ends in contrasting colors, adding both depth and elegance to their appearance. Their small, rounded form makes them perfect for collectors, designers, or anyone appreciating historical glass craftsmanship.

• Bead Size: 7–8 mm (length) x 7 mm (diameter)

• Condition: Very good antique condition

History & Craftsmanship

Chevron beads, also known as Rosetta beads, are a hallmark of Venetian glassmaking, first developed on the island of Murano in the late 15th century. Using the intricate “drawn cane” method, layers of colored molten glass were molded into star-shaped canes, pulled, sliced, and faceted to reveal the iconic starburst designs.

While blue, red, and green are more common in Chevron beads, black Chevrons are much rarer and highly sought after. These beads were widely traded throughout Africa, particularly in West Africa, where they were used as currency, ornamentation, and symbols of social status and prestige.

This set of five black Chevrons is a beautiful representation of this global legacy-each bead a miniature relic of cultural exchange and master craftsmanship.

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