Rare Antique Red Banded Oval Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads

Add a touch of history to your collection with these four exquisite antique red banded oval Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads. Crafted in Venice, Italy, and used in the African trade during the early 1900s, these beads are treasured for their intricate red bands and mosaic design that have beautifully withstood the test of time. Each bead exhibits a unique mosaic pattern, displaying the masterful craftsmanship of Venetian beadmakers. Perfect for collectors, jewelry makers, or those with a passion for African trade artifacts, these beads radiate historical significance and timeless beauty.

Bead Size:

• 13-14 mm x 10 mm

Condition:

• Very good condition
• Light beveling and very light chipping at the ends

These antique millefiori beads were meticulously crafted using a mosaic glass technique developed in Venice, where layers of colored glass were arranged to create stunning floral and geometric patterns within each bead. These glass beads became highly prized items across African trade routes, particularly in regions such as Ghana, where they were valued not only for their beauty but also as cultural artifacts and symbols of wealth. Millefiori beads continue to hold significant historical importance in African culture, symbolizing the powerful cultural exchange between continents.

Explore more of our collections below:

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