ANTIQUE VENETIAN 7 LAYER CHEVRON TRADE BEAD NECKLACE

ANTIQUE VENETIAN TRADE BEAD NECKLACE
~ CHEVRONS & WHITE HEARTS ~
 

This listing is for a necklace of Antique Venetian Trade Beads, featuring a large seven layer chevron bead from the 1400s - 1600s.

Chevron beads are special glass beads, the first specimens of this type were created by glass bead makers in Venice and Murano, Italy. The first chevron beads were made towards the end of the 15th century, consisting of 7 layers of alternating colours. The 7 layer chevron bead continued to be made for the next 150 years, and is considered by most collectors as the bead to have in their collection.

When holy and devout religious men Are at their beads, 'tis hard to draw them thence; So sweet is zealous contemplation.
~ William Shakespeare (1564 - 1616)

This 7 layer chevron bead could certainly tell a wonderful story, and will feel like wearing history! Although the bead has received some knocks, it is still structurally sound and makes a fine statement piece. The bead measures approximately 28mm x 25mm, and has a good hanging side. The stringing hole is large enough for the 7 layer chevron to slide along the antique Venetian white heart trade beads with which it is strung.

The 118 Cornaline d' Aleppo white hearts measure c.5mm diameter, and are in excellent condition. They date from the mid 1800s, and are the gorgeous deep cranberry red colour.

The necklace also features two 4 layer chevron trade beads dating from the 1800s, one of which is facetted and has the very dark blue/black outer layer. These beads measure approximately 18mm x 10mm.

The necklace is threaded on accuflex beading wire with sterling silver findings and hook/eye clasp. It measures approximately 18.5" long, and makes great collectable wear!