Antique Venetian OVAL Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads, 12-13mm

Presenting five exquisite and rare antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads in a unique oval shape. These beautiful early 1900s beads showcase Venice’s masterful glass artistry and have a distinguished history in the African trade, valued for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Each bead is skillfully crafted using the traditional millefiori (thousand flowers) technique and was likely cherished by its past owners.

These beads exhibit a gorgeous array of colors and mosaic floral designs, each adding to their individual charm and history. Ideal for collectors or jewelry artisans seeking authentic, historical materials.

Bead Specifications:

• Size: Approximately 12-13 mm x 11 mm
• Quantity: 5 oval beads

Condition:

• Very good condition: Minor chips at the ends, typical for trade beads of this age (see photos).

Millefiori Bead-Making Technique & African Trade Significance

Millefiori beads, or "thousand flowers" beads, were painstakingly handcrafted in Venice using a complex layering and slicing technique. Each bead contains intricate mosaic patterns that are the result of layering and cutting colorful glass canes, making every bead a miniature work of art. Historically, Venetian millefiori beads were highly valued in the African trade, especially in Ghana and across West Africa, where they became symbols of wealth and social status. Today, they hold both artistic and historical importance, treasured by collectors worldwide.

Explore more from our collection:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Antique Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive