Antique Banded Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass African Trade Beads, 12x11mm

Presenting a beautiful and rare strand of antique Venetian banded millefiori mosaic glass trade beads from the early 1900s, perfect for collectors of historical artifacts and unique jewelry makers alike. These beads, carefully crafted in Venice, showcase the exquisite art of millefiori glasswork, featuring intricate floral and banded designs that captivate the eye.

Each bead in this set has been expertly beveled to highlight the delicate mosaic pattern and is in excellent condition, allowing the authentic colors and design to shine brilliantly. Historically traded in Africa, especially prized in Ghana and West Africa, these beads carry not only exceptional artistry but also rich cultural significance.

Bead Details:

• Approximate Size: 12 x 11 mm each
• Condition: Excellent, beveled with visible, unique banded design

Technique and Cultural Significance:
The art of millefiori (Italian for “thousand flowers”) dates back centuries and was perfected in Venice, where glassmakers would arrange layers of molten colored glass to create flower-like patterns. Once cooled, the glass canes were sliced, producing each bead’s intricate, miniature designs. These beads became valuable in trade across Africa, where they were exchanged for gold, ivory, and other goods, symbolizing wealth and status in various African communities.

To view similar treasures and explore more from our collection, visit:

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