In some cultures they have been credited with magical protective powers or worn to convey social status. Given their popularity it is not surprising therefore that they became a convenient medium for exchange and barter.
Materials easily obtained in one location would be more valuable far from their source. Egyptian faience and glass were traded to Northern and Western Europe as far back as the bronze Age and coral, highly prized in Tibet for centuries, was imported from Italy along the silk route.
Glass was a favorite material for bead production, relatively easy to work and cheap to produce. It was sometimes used as a simulant for much rarer gemstones, but also developed its own bead tradition.
One of the most important periods for European glass beadmaking began during the Renaissance. As adventurers and traders sailed for other parts of the world they carried glass beads with them to barter and offer as gifts.
As routes became better known and trade relationships more established there was increased demand for glass bead production. By the 17th century European beads were being profitably exchanged for furs and raw materials in the Americas, and gold, ivory, slaves and other exotic products from Africa.
Venice was the origin for much of the trade bead production. However they were unable to maintain their monopoly position, and Venetian artisans also helped develop industries in Holland, Bohemia and other centres.
A huge variety of beads were produced, and the Venetians pioneered methods of mass production for sohisticated patterns. Some particular deigns were very popular for trade.
Chevron or rosetta beads, built from layers of different colour glass, and ending in a star pattern were made in large numbers for export. The most common were made from a combination of red, white and blue, with a 12 pointed star. However other colours and star shapes are known. Some varieties are now very rare.
Smaller drawn or cane beads were also made in huge numbers.
Even though these beads were mass produced, the nature of the process means that subtle variations of size and pattern occur.
The use of beads for trade declined in the early part of the 20th Century. However many of the styles are stll produced today, by the same methods.
Antique trade beads have become highly collectable, and prices have risen along with their popularity.
