Product Description: Celebrate the rich tradition of West African weddings with this strand of Czech-made Bohemian glass wedding beads. Known for their light bulb-like shape, these pressed glass beads were mass-produced around 100 years ago for export to African countries. Brides in West Africa adorn themselves with these beads during wedding ceremonies, hence the name 'wedding beads.' This strand features a mix of hexagonal discs and triangular beads, primarily in black and green, with a variety of other colors interspersed. Some beads are made of uranium glass, which fluoresces under black light. The beads are relatively small and lightweight, making them suitable for use as a necklace.
Specifications:
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Origin: Czech Republic
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Estimated Production Era: 19th to 20th century
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Bead Sizes:
- Large Light Bulb Bead: 17mm x 12mm
- Small Light Bulb Bead: 12mm x 8mm
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Materials: Glass, Fishing Line
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Length (including string): 56cm
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Special Notes:
- This strand can be worn as a necklace, but since it's strung on a thin fishing line, we recommend restringing for durability.
- Some beads may have sticker residue.
Important Information:
As these are antique beads, they may have scratches, cracks, chips, or dirt. Images are for illustrative purposes only, and the actual product may vary in pattern and color. Please allow slight discrepancies in size.
Other Trade Beads:
During the African slave trade era, beads were passionately adored by kings and aristocrats. These beads, mainly produced in Venice and the Czech Republic (Bohemian glass), were extensively traded for slaves, gold, ivory, and other goods. The production techniques of these glass beads were highly secretive, with craftsmen often confined to prevent knowledge leaks. Unlike beads made for the European market, these were meticulously crafted to suit the preferences of various African tribes, resulting in a diverse array of large, small, patterned, and plain beads.
