Antique Venetian Green Millefiori African Trade Beads 30” Mosaic Strand

Beautiful mixed matched strand of antique Venetian/Murano millefiori mosaic glass trade beads in predominantly green and yellow.

The strand includes an assortment of elongated tube and cylinder beads featuring embedded floral, eye, sunburst, striped and feather-like cane patterns. Colors include vivid green, yellow, white, brick red, orange, cobalt blue and black.

“Millefiori” means “thousand flowers,” referring to the intricate cross-sections of patterned glass cane embedded throughout the beads. These designs are part of the glass itself and are not surface-painted.

Produced in Venice for trade with West Africa, most likely during the late 1800s to early 1900s. The beads are temporarily strung on traditional raffia or fiber cord.

Approximately 30 inches long overall, including the raffia loop.

Antique condition with chips, edge losses, pitting, scratches, surface wear and variations in shape and size. Several beads have more noticeable end chips or pattern losses, all visible in the close-up photographs. These imperfections are consistent with their age, handmade construction and long history of use.

The existing raffia cord shows wear and is not guaranteed for regular use. Restringing is recommended if the beads will be made into a wearable necklace.

A striking collector strand with an unusually cohesive green-and-yellow palette and a wide assortment of antique Venetian millefiori patterns.

Sold as one complete strand, exactly as photographed.