Rare Antique Green French Cross Venetian Lampwork Trade Beads

Discover the beauty of these five rare antique Venetian lampwork trade beads. These exquisite beads, featuring a distinctive green French cross design with intricate trail decoration, are a unique find for any collector or jewelry maker.

• Size: 10 - 11 mm in length
• Diameter: 9 mm

• Condition: Good (beveled and some beads are very lightly chipped at the ends, see photos)

These Venetian glass beads were expertly crafted in Venice, Italy, during the late 1800s to early 1900s. Known as wound glass beads or lampwork beads, they were meticulously handmade using a lampworking technique that involves winding molten glass around a metal rod. This method allowed for the creation of detailed and colorful designs, such as the beautiful trail decoration seen on these beads.

Venetian trade beads played a significant role in the African trade, particularly in Ghana and across the continent. They were highly valued and used as currency, in rituals, and as symbols of wealth and status. These beads are not only a piece of art but also a tangible piece of history, reflecting the rich cultural exchange between Europe and Africa.

Explore more of TribalGH's collection of Venetian Lampwork beads currently available for sale: Venetian Lampwork Beads Collection

Check out the old trade beads currently for sale: Old Trade Beads Collection

Browse our archives of sold Venetian lampwork beads: Archives of Sold Venetian Lampwork Beads