Antique Venetian 5-Layer Blue Chevron Beads – Floral / Onion Skin

Antique Venetian Chevron African Trade Beads 5-Layer Floral/Onion Skin, Blue

Discover a rare and stunning set of five antique Venetian Chevron glass trade beads featuring a unique floral/onion skin pattern with five layers in a deep blue hue. These exquisite beads, referenced in Picard, Volume VII, p.71, bead 691, showcase the remarkable craftsmanship of Murano glassmakers from the early 1900s.

• Size: Each bead measures 11mm in length and 8mm in diameter.
• Condition: Very good, with minor chipping at the ends (see photos).

These Venetian Chevron beads were highly prized in the African trade, valued for their beauty and intricate design.

The History & Craftsmanship of Chevron Beads

Chevron beads, also known as Rosetta beads, have been handcrafted in Venice since the late 15th century. These beads are made using the caneworking technique, where multiple layers of colored glass are fused and cut to reveal star-like patterns. They were among the most sought-after trade beads in Africa, used as a form of currency and a symbol of prestige. Today, these antique beads remain highly collectible and are admired for their historical significance and artistry.

Explore more of our Venetian Chevron beads collection here:

👉 Chevron Beads Collection

Browse our archives of sold trade beads from Venice, Czech, and Africa:

👉 Trade Beads Archives