Millefiori Glass Beads Strand

Product Description: This is a strand of Millefiori glass beads, renowned for their intricate floral patterns. Each bead is a unique piece of art, originating from Venice.

Specifications:

• Origin: Venice
• Size:
  • Length: 111cm
  • Main Bead Size: 8mm x 17mm
• Condition: As these are antique items, they may have scratches, cracks, or chips.

About Millefiori:

Era: Late 1800s to early 1900s

Origin: Venice

Technique: Mosaic appliqué or mosaic folding

In Africa, these beads are known as Chachaso. The term "Millefiori" is Italian for "a thousand flowers." After the collapse of exclusive trade with the East and the dominance of Bohemian glass in the European market, Venice faced significant economic challenges. In response, Venetian artisans created highly decorative glass pieces, with Millefiori glass being one of the most prominent examples. Traders who were already engaged in bead trade with Africa crafted tubular beads from this glass and transported them as trade beads to Africa.