Old Translucent Green 2 mm Venetian Seed Bead Strand – Trade Beads

Unique Translucent Green Old Venetian Glass Seed Bead Strand – Tiny 2 mm Trade Beads

• Bead Size: approx. 2 mm diameter
• Condition: Excellent overall; some beads are lightly chipped (please see photos)

This is a genuine strand of Old Venetian drawn seed beads also known as Venetian Seed beads, Conteria beads, tiny drawn beads, or Old Venetian Seed beads. The translucent green beads are exquisitely uniform at approx. 2 mm each, and the strand measures approx. 26″ (66 cm) in length. Each bead in your order will be identical to the strand shown in the photographs, making this piece perfect for collectors, artisans, and jewelry makers looking for authentic African trade beads from the early‑mid 1900s.

History & Value

These Old Venetian drawn beads were hand‑made in Venice and played a significant role in African trade well into the early to mid‑20th century. Each tiny drawn bead was meticulously pulled or "drawn" from molten glass, then cut and polished by hand techniques perfected by Venetian glassmakers over centuries. The result is a beautifully consistent, high‑quality seed bead prized by ethnographic collectors and crafters alike. Their historical provenance, combined with rarity in this translucent green color and tiny size, contributes significant collectible and artistic value.

How They Were Made in Venice

Venetian draw‑tubes were formed by drawing molten glass into long uniform canes. Once cooled, these canes were sliced into minute segments each becoming a perfect tiny seed bead of approx. 2 mm diameter. These are true hand‑made glass trade beads produced in Venice, hence known as “Old Venetian Drawn Beads” or “Conteria Beads.”

Discover more of our exquisite offerings below:

• View our current seed bead strands
• Explore our handmade jewelry
• Browse our Archives of Venetian, Czech & African trade beads