Vintage Opalescent Venetian 3 mm Seed Beads Strand – Old Drawn Trade Beads

Opalescent Venetian Seed Glass Trade Beads – 3 mm Strand

Stunning strand of Old Venetian drawn opalescent seed glass trade beads, circa early 1900s. Beautiful color, perfect for restoration or display. Your strand will be identical to the one shown in the photographs.

• Size: 3 mm diameter beads
• Length: Approximately 27 ¼″ (69 cm) of beads
• Condition: Excellent no chips, cracks, or restoration. Uniform coatings and full stranding; see photos.

History, Value & Venetian Craftsmanship

These exquisite Conteria beads also known as Old Venetian seed beads or tiny drawn trade beads, were hand‑crafted in Venice for African trade in the early 1900s. Each bead began as a slender glass rod, hand‑pulled (or drawn) to create long rods, then cross‑cut into tiny uniform cylinders before being fired and polished.

The opalescent finish gives a soft glow that collectors prize. Their rarity, age, and condition contribute to strong historical and monetary value, especially in excellent condition like this strand.

These beads are a beautiful piece of trade bead heritage, perfect for jewelry makers, collectors, curators, and cultural historians.

Explore more:

• Our current seed bead strands collection
• Handmade jewelry collection
• Archives of sold Venetian, Czech & African trade beads