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Trade beads moved between continents for centuries before finding their way into collections like this one.
Chevron beads were first made in Venice around the late 1400s. Their layers of glass ground back to expose the starburst pattern that made them one of the most sought-after trade currencies across West Africa.
Czech glass beads brought precision and colour from Bohemia, pressed and cut to a quality that holds up today.
The Bakelite strands sit in a different tradition altogether: round disc forms in vulcanite polymer, tactile and bold, made for wearing as much as for making.
Each strand can be worn as a necklace or used as the starting point for your own piece.
Showing 1–12 of 22 resultsSorted by popularity
African Bakelite. Round discs made of vulcanite polymer paste. Perfect for jewellery making or as a stand alone necklace.
Length: 90-100cm
African Bakelite. Round discs made of vulcanite polymer paste. Perfect for jewellery making or as a stand alone necklace.
Length: 90-100cm
Discover chevron trade beads—historic glass trade beads with striking starburst patterns, exchanged in West Africa for gold, textiles, and cultural prestige.
This is a long vintage strand of small chevron beads – a true collectors item
Length: 70cm
Czech Trade Beads – Vintage deep green, tear drop strand in mint condition.
For unique jewelry and crafts. Precision-cut, high-quality beads that bring your designs to life
Length: 66cm
Czech Trade Beads – Vintage deep green, tubular beaded strand in mint condition.
For unique jewelry and crafts. Precision-cut, high-quality beads that bring your designs to life
Length: 64cm
Czech Trade Beads – Vintage deep green, smaller beaded strand in mint condition.
Renowned for their rich hues, durability, and artisan craftsmanship. A must-have for jewelry and craft enthusiasts
Length: 60cm
African Bakelite. Round discs made of vulcanite polymer paste, perfect for jewellery making or as a stand alone necklace.
Diameter: 6mm
Length: 56cm
Exquisate pink Venetian Millefiori trade beads:
Stuning glass beads with intricate floral patterns, once traded in West Africa as symbols of wealth and status
Length: 27cm
Czech glass trade beads: Timeless beauty in every strand.
Perfect for jewelry making, beading projects, and adding a touch of elegance to any design
Length: 34cm
Handcrafted large vintage, Venetian chevron beads, once used as trade currency in West Africa, now treasured for their vibrant layers and timeless craftsmanship
Length: 38cm
Historic Millefiori beads—Venetian glass trade beads prized in West Africa for their vibrant colors, unique patterns, and deep cultural significance
Length: 44cm
