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Early 1800's 7 Layer Chevron Trade Bead Necklace

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:200.00 - 400.00 USD
Early 1800's 7 Layer Chevron Trade Bead Necklace
For your consideration is a seven layered graduated Chevron beads trade necklace originating from the early 19th century. Chevrons beads are made by a multi-part process. They start with the making of the cane, then another color glass is added, and then this is usually put into a 12 point star mold. This process is repeated for each additional layer on the bead. Chevron beads, also called "Rosetta" and "Star" beads, have been made in Venice since the late 1400's. The Venetian Chevron production with the highest volume of beads was in the late 1800's and early 1900's. Chevron beads have been traded throughout the world, but most heavily in Africa. The Dutch traders were the first to bring Chevron beads to Africa in the late 1400's. This necklace shows twenty six graduated seven layer chevron beads with beautiful blue, red, and white glass layers. The beads range in size from 1/4" X 1/4" up to 5/8" X 7/8". The piece is strung with a waxed sinew. The piece shows good condition overall, with some of the beads showing wear. The necklace measures 15" in circumference.