These five beautiful matching Venetian Millefiori mosaic glass trade beads date back to the early 1900s and were used in the African trade, particularly in West Africa. Millefiori beads, also known as mosaic beads, were created by skilled Venetian artisans, with each bead showcasing vibrant and intricate floral patterns.
Length: 12-13 mm
Diameter: 7 mm
Condition: Excellent (very lightly beveled, with one bead chipped at the end, see photos)
Venetian millefiori beads were produced through a complex and time-honored technique, where layers of colored glass canes were fused together and sliced to create unique, mosaic patterns. These beads were highly sought after in West Africa, particularly Ghana, where they played a crucial role in trade and were symbols of wealth and social status.
Explore more of TribalGH's exclusive collections of authentic Venetian trade beads:
