{"title":"African Trade Beads","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/african-beads\" title=\"African beads\"\u003eAfrican beads\u003c\/a\u003e were first produced as a form of currency for native inhabitants all across the continent of Africa centuries ago, and are now appreciated world wide by thousands of bead collectors, wearers, and enthusiasts. What draws people to \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/african-trade-beads\" title=\"Trade beads\"\u003etrade beads\u003c\/a\u003e is not only their elegance and beauty in craft, but the experience and history that comes along with each bead.  While African bead makers continue to create new beads today, many of the items we offer have traveled long distances and years of existence to arrive where they are today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe carry a large selection of high quality, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/pages\/authentic-trade-beads\/\" title=\"Traditional Characteristics of Authentic Trade Beads\"\u003eauthentic trade beads\u003c\/a\u003e. Hundreds of strands in stock, including \u003cstrong\u003eglass trade beads\u003c\/strong\u003e, antique african trade beads, vintage venetian trade beads, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/chevron-beads\" title=\"Chevron beads\"\u003eChevron trade beads\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eczech trade beads\u003c\/strong\u003e, and more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrade Beads are beads that have been used as a form of currency for the exchange of goods and services especially in West Africa. Some of the more common items that these beads were bartered for include ivory, gold, slaves, and other goods that were in demand by Europeans and colonial overlords. Trade beads were made throughout Europe, however their production was concentrated in Venice and Bohemia where the secrets of glass bead production were a carefully guarded secret. The high demand for European beads in Africa can be attributed to the cultural value put by African peoples on decorative items. Jewelry items could add to the status of the owner and could be passed on to future generations as a symbol of wealth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterestingly, trade beads were also used for trade in the New World. The important role that they played is illustrated by the legend that the Dutch \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/pages\/trade-beads-manhattan-island\/\"\u003epurchased the island of Manhattan\u003c\/a\u003e from local Native American tribes for several strands of beads. It is believed that Christopher Columbus used glass Trade Beads for barter during his early voyages. Later, Spanish explorers and European fur traders and American explorers such as Lewis and Clark used Trade Beads to facilitate interactions with local peoples and to procure goods. Today, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/african-beads\" title=\"African beads\"\u003eAfrican beads\u003c\/a\u003e used in the trade are considered highly collectible items.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wide variety of Trade Beads were produced between the 16th and 20th centuries. One of the most celebrated bead designs is the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/millefiori-beads\" title=\"Millefiori beads\"\u003eMillefiori Bead\u003c\/a\u003e from Venice that was named after the characteristic flower pattern on its surface. The methods used to make these and other beads are a testament to the innovation of Venetian artisans. African artisans subsequently copied \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/glass-beads\" title=\"Glass beads\"\u003eglass\u003c\/a\u003e cane beads such as the Millefiori using \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/powder-glass-beads\" title=\"Powdered glass beads\"\u003epowdered glass\u003c\/a\u003e techniques to produce indigenous African Kiffa Beads with similar patterns. Additional well-known varieties of trade beads include \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/chevron-beads\" title=\"Chevron trade beads\"\u003eChevrons\u003c\/a\u003e, Dogon Beads,\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/vaseline-beads\" title=\"Vaseline beads\"\u003eVaseline Beads\u003c\/a\u003e, Russian Blue Beads, Skunk Beads and many others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, Trade Beads are world-renown for their rich legacy and aesthetic beauty. While \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/african-trade-beads\" title=\"African trade beads\"\u003eAfrican Trade Beads\u003c\/a\u003e have long been highly regarded in African culture, their appreciation in Western countries continues to grow both among bead collectors and artists as well as bead enthusiasts alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"white-annular-wound-dogan-beads","title":"White Annular Wound Dogan Beads","description":"Fabulous strand of old annular wound trade beads also known as \"Dutch Donuts\".  These african trade beads have traveled at least three continents and have graced numerous owners.  Beads may have small chips or corrosion due to their age and extensive use.  We are told they are German trade beads which were used in African trade in the late 1800's.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949967109,"sku":"Annular Wound-306","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/annular-wound-306-2_4ab7b5d8-87c7-4db3-99fa-bd8ab68fa673.jpeg?v=1759251179"},{"product_id":"clear-old-annular-wound-dogan-beads","title":"Clear Old Annular Wound Dogon Beads (11mm)","description":"Fabulous strand of old annular wound trade beads also known as \"Dutch Donuts\".  These african trade beads have traveled at least three continents and have graced numerous owners.  Beads may have small chips or corrosion due to their age and extensive use.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949967173,"sku":"DOGN-DISK-WHT-201","price":79.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0070-1_f97ddb35-9873-4809-8e9a-7f88bd3a0ed2.png?v=1762457109"},{"product_id":"blue-old-annular-wound-dogan-beads","title":"Blue Old Annular Wound Dogon Beads","description":"Fabulous strand of old annular wound trade beads also known as \"Dutch Donuts\".  These african trade beads have traveled at least three continents and have graced numerous owners.  Beads may have small chips or corrosion due to their age and extensive use. Strands may vary from photo.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949968389,"sku":"DOGN-DISK-BLU-211","price":79.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0079-1_22c1d8c2-84dc-43ad-9ebe-7ebcc147272e.png?v=1762457110"},{"product_id":"green-old-annular-wound-dogan-beads","title":"Green Annular Wound Dogon Beads","description":"Take a look at this fabulous strand of annular wound trade beads also known as \"Dutch Donuts.\" Trade beads like these have traveled multiple continents and have graced numerous owners. Beads may have small chips or corrosion due to their age and extensive use.\r\n\r\nIt is very rare to find such a strand in this rare green color, and in such good condition.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949968581,"sku":"annular-wound-203","price":79.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/shopify_539_7382fa16-1e55-4d97-9fd8-eb88c2c7ddf8.jpg?v=1762457110"},{"product_id":"red-dogon-beads","title":"Red Old Annular Wound Dogon Beads","description":"Fabulous strand of old annular wound trade beads also known as \"Dutch Donuts\".  These african trade beads have traveled at least three continents and have graced numerous owners.  Beads may have small chips or corrosion due to their age and extensive use.  We are told they are German trade beads which were used in African trade in the late 1800's.\n\n\n\nIt is very rare to find such a strand in this rare red color, and in such good condition.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949968645,"sku":"DOGN-DISK-RED-204","price":119.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/annular-wound-204-2_d76170f7-4797-4462-b500-2f9f15b859dd.jpeg?v=1762457112"},{"product_id":"amber-annular-wound-dogan-beads","title":"Amber Annular Wound Dogon Beads","description":"Take a look at this fabulous strand of annular wound trade beads also known as \"Dutch Donuts.\" Trade beads like these have traveled multiple continents and have graced numerous owners. Beads may have small chips or corrosion due to their age and extensive use.\r\n\r\nIt is very rare to find such a strand in this rare amber color, and in such good condition.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949968709,"sku":"DOGN-DISK-BRN-205","price":79.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/shopify_601_630b6fd4-6069-49d1-b936-c8c863fac873.jpg?v=1762457112"},{"product_id":"rose-old-annular-wound-dogan-beads","title":"Rose Annular Wound Dogon Beads (14mm)","description":"Take a look at this fabulous strand of annular wound trade beads also known as \"Dutch Donuts.\" Trade beads like these have traveled multiple continents and have graced numerous owners. Beads may have small chips or corrosion due to their age and extensive use.\r\n\r\nIt is very rare to find such a strand in this rare rose color, and in such good condition.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949968773,"sku":"annular-wound-206","price":125.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/shopify_357_5f3b98c4-6349-4db2-a05a-e1feb15e3087.jpg?v=1762457112"},{"product_id":"clear-dogon-beads","title":"Clear Annular Wound Dogon Beads (24mm)","description":"Fabulous strand of annular wound trade beads also known as \"Dutch Donuts\". Beads such as these are said to have traveled at least three continents and have graced numerous owners. Some strands may show some discoloration or off-white tones. It is unusual to find these beads in such a big size.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949969605,"sku":"DOGN-DISK-CLR-208","price":34.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/shopify_362-1_0521c9be-b735-4591-bc9d-5c8516b37ecc.jpg?v=1762457113"},{"product_id":"black-antique-skunk-eye-beads","title":"Antique Black Skunk Venetian Eye Beads","description":"Beautiful strand of old skunk eye trade beads. This strand has traveled at least three continents and was originally traded in the 1800's. This particular variety of black skunk is found in Ethiopia. Individual beads measure approximately 8-12 x 9-14mm. Each strand is unique and may vary slightly from photo. Own a piece of history with these amazing beads. Hard to find.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949970053,"sku":"antique-skunk-eye-beads-202","price":249.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_1250-1.png?v=1759251198"},{"product_id":"ostrich-egg-shell-heishi-beads","title":"Ostrich Egg Shell Heishi, African Trade Beads","description":"Checkout these beautiful Ostrich Egg Shells from Africa! They are handmade from Kenya, Africa. These beads are strung on sisal and could even be worn as is. The strand is approximately 26\" long, and each bead is about 7-14mm in diameter. They are perfect for any of your beading needs! Some of the current stock, beads are not as smooth as in the picture. There may be variation in sizes within the same strand. Current inventory may vary in size.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949972997,"sku":"EGG-DSK-WHT-240","price":37.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0367-1.png?v=1762457138"},{"product_id":"binta-banji-beads","title":"Vintage Binta Banji Kakamba Beads","description":"Unusual strand of multi color Binta Banji prosser beads.  Each amazing strand of Binta Banji is unique and will show some minor variation. Each long strand measures 30'' in length. Some strands may include ~10% round padre beads in complementary colors.  This is a vintage item and some percentage of beads may show chips or other signs of age. Hard-to-find item with limited supply!","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949974725,"sku":"BINTA-BANJI-999","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/004300-1.jpg?v=1762457145"},{"product_id":"blue-chevron-beads","title":"Blue Chevron Trade Beads (8mm)","description":"Take a look at this great strand of beautiful chevron trade beads. Each strand is 23 inches long with approximately 56 beads measuring 9-11 x 7-10mm diameter. These great beads are highly versatile and may be used as spacers or accents in your unique designs. A great addition to your beading toolkit!","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949978949,"sku":"chevron-219","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/DSC_0920-1.jpg?v=1762457177"},{"product_id":"christmas-beads-6-strands","title":"Christmas Beads (6 Strands)","description":"Bright, beautifully colored glass trade beads with an occasional plastic spacer bead. Originally made in southern Spain and Venice especially for the African trade. Tribes would keep these beads as heirlooms for generations. They are now being accumulated in Nigeria and Ghana by the bead, and restrung for your beading projects. Strand lengths will vary randomly from 33 inches to 36 inches.\n\n\n\nYou are purchasing SIX strands of beads.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949980485,"sku":"XMAS-201","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/christmas-201-2_17d99eb3-7372-439e-8511-7d53755c9914.jpeg?v=1762457183"},{"product_id":"mixed-chevron-christmas-beads-small-6-strands","title":"Mixed Chevron Christmas Beads, small (6 Strands)","description":"Bright, beautifully colored glass trade beads with an occasional plastic spacer bead. Originally made in southern Spain and Venice especially for the African trade. Tribes would keep these beads as heirlooms for generations. They are now being accumulated in Nigeria and Ghana by the bead, and restrung for your beading projects. Strand lengths will vary randomly from 33 inches to 35 inches.\n\n\n\nYou are purchasing SIX strands of beads.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949980805,"sku":"christmas-204","price":19.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/christmas-204-2t_20a255eb-a869-4ecd-8e55-7f7705490e37.jpeg?v=1762457186"},{"product_id":"fulani-funeral-beads","title":"Fulani Funeral Beads - Blue Russian Tube Glass Beads","description":"Take a look at this nice strand of Russian Tube beads from Africa. Each strand measures 26\" with each bead measuring approximately 10-21 x 5-10mm. These beads are used by the Fulani people, and are also known as Fulani funeral beads. Multiple strands pictured. Each strand sold individually.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949984773,"sku":"CZEC-TUB-BLU-202","price":23.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0225_85fd268d-9649-4c80-b183-b7bfdc2ea1ae.jpg?v=1759251341"},{"product_id":"red-fulani-glass-beads","title":"Red Transluscent Bohemian Fulani Glass Beads (Matte)","description":"Checkout this beautiful strand of elongated glass from Africa, originally made in Czechoslovakia for African Trade. The strand measures about 25\", with beads measuring approximately 5.5cm in length. Each strand has about 16 beads. Some beads may be slightly worn out on the ends due to age. A few beads may be chipped or vary from photo.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949985029,"sku":"CZEC-UNU-RED-209","price":32.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0408-1_0dc97b75-3726-44b2-943b-0dec4cf65ee3.png?v=1759251344"},{"product_id":"black-bohemian-fulani-glass-beads","title":"Black Bohemian Fulani Glass Beads","description":"Checkout this beautiful strand of elongated glass from Africa, originally made in czechoslovakia for African Trade. The strand measures about 28\", with beads measuring approximately 20mm in length. Each strand has about 32 beads. Some beads may be slightly worn out on the ends due to age.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949985093,"sku":"CZEC-UNU-BLK-210","price":16.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/czech-210-2t_878fa6c6-921a-4791-bb12-5d2f96350586.jpeg?v=1762457194"},{"product_id":"clear-transluscent-bohemian-fulani-glass-beads","title":"Clear Translucent Vintage Bohemian Fulani Glass Beads (40x9mm)","description":"Admire this authentic strand of vintage glass beads from the famed glass-making region of Bohemia in former Czechoslovakia. Beads such as these were once traded throughout West Africa in a number of countries including Nigeria. Due to their age each strand will have some beads with imperfections and possibly some chips or cracks. Translucent vintage Bohemian glass such as this is hard to find. These beads were out of stock for over 4 years! Each strand is unique and may differ slightly from photo. Limited supply.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16949985157,"sku":"czech-211","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_003751-1.jpg?v=1762457194"},{"product_id":"orange-antique-french-cross-beads","title":"Old Venetian French Cross Beads","description":"Take a look at this old  beautiful strand of French Cross African Trade Beads. They are Venetian made and have traveled many continents before being traded in Africa. The beads are 10-14mm long and 7-8mm in diameter. A few beads may bead chipped due to age. Strand may vary slightly from strand pictured as each strand is unique.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950045893,"sku":"FRENCH-CROSS-201","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/img_5627-1_6df48eb7-efcf-45f6-bfaf-73a9093ca02d.jpeg?v=1762457261"},{"product_id":"white-french-cross-beads","title":"White Venetian French Cross Trade Beads (Long Strand)","description":"Take a look at this old  beautiful strand of French Cross African Trade Beads.  They are Venetian made and have travelled many continents before being traded in Africa.  The beads are 8-9mm long and 5-6mm in diameter.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950047237,"sku":"FRENCH-CROSS-202","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/french-cross-beads-202-2_e0e4b18d-770f-4d51-b449-e04cb122d101.jpeg?v=1762457261"},{"product_id":"glass-millefiori-beads","title":"Rectangular Millefiori Beads (26x12mm)","description":"Beautiful millefiori beads modeled after venetian trade beads, made from multi-color chevron canes by slicing the cane, and forming into rectangle-shaped bead. Because each bead is handmade individually, each one is unique and different with beautiful colors and variety of patterns and reflect artistic taste and craftsmanship. Each bead measures approximately 26-27 x 12mm with a hole size of approximately 2-4mm. You will receive a full strand measuring approximately 24 inches.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950048773,"sku":"MILLE-RCT-MIX-102","price":18.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/shopify_379-1_7042d493-5c30-4a50-b8b2-04ebf594a35b.jpg?v=1762457273"},{"product_id":"antique-green-heart-beads","title":"Antique Green Heart Beads","description":"Beautiful VERY OLD strand of medium size GREEN HEART Venetian glass trade beads !!!!!! The necklace is approximately 26-30\" long  and the size of the beads is 6 - 8 mm in diameter. Venetian trade beads used in the African trade early 1800's. Each strand is unique and may vary from photo. It is not uncommon for some of the beads for old beads such as these to be chipped due to age and to show parts of the underlying translucent glass of the green layer.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950049157,"sku":"GREEN-HEARTS-201","price":33.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/green-hearts-201-2_b1fee07d-6747-46bb-a941-47c45f012b6e.jpeg?v=1762457276"},{"product_id":"antique-green-heart-beads-small","title":"Antique Green Heart Beads (Small)","description":"Beautiful VERY OLD strand of small size GREEN HEART Venetian glass trade beads !!!!!! The strand is in good condition (some beads are chipped). The necklace is 29-30\" long  and the size of the beads is 4-9 mm in diameter. Venetian trade beads were used in the African trade in the early 1800's. Each strand is unique and may vary slightly from photo.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950049221,"sku":"GREEN-HEARTS-202","price":36.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0075-1_0937b0f4-d8d7-41c9-88b1-d90205e78686.png?v=1762457278"},{"product_id":"kakamba-prosser-beads-orange-color","title":"Kakamba Prosser Beads,Orange Color","description":"Beautiful strand of multi color kakamba prosser beads.  Each strand of kakamba is unique and you will receive a beautiful of these gorgeous orange beads as pictured. The beads are approximately 7-8mm in diameter.  The strnd is 25inches long","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950054277,"sku":"kakamba-beads-217","price":19.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/kakamba-beads-217-2t_0e8957e9-3680-45aa-ab66-fe392db0c398.jpeg?v=1762457312"},{"product_id":"blue-kakamba-prosser-beads","title":"Blue Kakamba Prosser Beads","description":"Beautiful strand of blue color kakamba prosser beads   Each strand of kakamba is unique and you will receive a beautiful strand of these gorgeous blue beads.  The beads are approximately 9mm in diameter.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950054341,"sku":"kakamba-beads-219","price":19.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/kakamba-beads-219-2t_282b3927-8c3d-4cab-b0b0-d29de86e35fc.jpeg?v=1762457312"},{"product_id":"yellow-king-beads","title":"Yellow King Trade Beads","description":"Here we have a beautiful strand of yellow King Beads. Strands like this are hard to come across. They are handmade of the highest quality glass. Each bead is individually handcrafted, so beads may vary slightly in size.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950054405,"sku":"KNG-BIC-YLW-101","price":29.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/img_3988-1_438c2dc8-6576-4bd4-8cfb-f2b4bf680cab.jpeg?v=1759251575"},{"product_id":"green-king-beads","title":"Green King Trade Beads","description":"Here we have a beautiful strand of King beads. Strands like this are hard to come across. They are handmade with great attention to detail. Each bead is individually handcrafted, so beads may vary slightly in size.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950054469,"sku":"KNG-BIC-GRN-102","price":29.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/IMG_3144-1.jpeg?v=1759251577"},{"product_id":"black-king-trade-beads","title":"Black King Trade Beads","description":"Here we have a beautiful strand of King beads. Strands like this are hard to come across. They are handmade of the highest quality glass. Each bead is individually handcrafted, so beads may vary slightly in size.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950054533,"sku":"KNG-BIC-BLK-103","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/kb103-2t_b40f5099-5b56-4697-b8da-eb3d6b9e4195.jpeg?v=1762457315"},{"product_id":"large-mali-wedding-beads","title":"Large Mali Wedding Beads","description":"Luminous, smooth, and with shades encompassing the entire color spectrum; this tantalizing string of authentic large Mali Wedding Beads are the perfect addition to any African trade beads collection. Still strung upon their original raffia, this dazzling array of multifarious shapes (including the classic Mali 'pear', flat and elongated beads) are presented upon an approximate string of 27\". There are approximately 75 individual beads per strand. The strand pictured is a sample.  The strand of Mali Wedding Beads shipped will be very similar.\r\n\r\nWhether you're seeking to create the jewelry wow-factor with an authentic African pendant bead, or you're simply an avid collector, these beads are:\r\n- Exotically colorful and each strand varies greatly.\r\n- Handmade in Czechoslovakia using traditional glass techniques.\t\r\n- 100% authentic, with characteristics of their Centuries-old use.\t\r\n- Varied in size and shape, for an abundance of jewelry projects.\t\r\n- Highly collectible, as no two strands are alike. \r\n\r\nHow Mali Wedding Beads Are Made:\r\n\r\nThe Venetian dominated trend of glass bead production during the 18th Century, began a ripple effect across Europe – most notably within Bohemia (now the Czech Republic). Classic blown glass methods tended to be utilized for the tear-drop shaped beads, in order to create the heavy bulbous characteristic. Elongated and flat Mali Wedding Beads were produced using the a casting technique involving molds. For this reason, many of the Mali Wedding Beads appear to have a striped, or tonal appearance, as a result of several glass colors being used.\r\n\r\nThe modern Fulani women of Mali, Africa, have been wearing Mali Wedding Beads for more than a Century; the immensely feminine shape of these beads indicative of both style and status. However, these African trade beads have far more significance to the Fulani, and were equally as coveted by their ancestors for over a hundred years ago. Mali Wedding Beads were first manufactured within the Czech Republic (formerly Bohemia), as a collectible currency for the African tribes, with which European merchants sought to do trade. Mali Wedding Beads replaced their similarly shaped clay counterparts, for use by the Fulani women during wedding rituals. Even today, the tradition of a mother presenting her daughter with a string of these beads on her wedding day still continues. \t\r\n\r\nMali Wedding beads are hand-made, and are presented to brides on their wedding days.  They were made in what was once known as Czechoslovakia, for trade in Africa.  Mali Wedding beads are worn throughout West Africa, specifically in Mali.  These trade beads are multicolored and come in different shapes and sizes.  Some are in the shape of a bulb, while others are elongated, flat, or triangular.  Each strand is unique, and may vary from the strand pictured.  The glass beads are strung in a way that allows them to swivel around the cord. These beads are greatly treasured and worn by Fulani women.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950075845,"sku":"MALI-WEDDING-201","price":135.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/mali-wedding-201-2_fa41e37c-a3f6-4216-b0a3-5384eefca7ed.jpeg?v=1762457579"},{"product_id":"small-mali-wedding-beads","title":"Small Vintage Mali Wedding Beads","description":"Mali Wedding beads are hand-made, and are presented to brides on their wedding days. They were made in what was once known as Czechoslovakia, for trade in Africa. They are worn throughout West Africa, specifically in Mali. These beads are multicolored and come  the shape of a bulb. While each strand is unique, and may vary from the strand pictured, yet they have similarities. The glass beads are strung in a way that allows them to swivel around the cord. These beads are greatly treasured and worn by Fulani women.\r\n\r\nThis strand measures approximately 24\".  The strand pictured is a sample. The strand shipped will be very similar.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950076421,"sku":"mali-wedding-203","price":135.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/mali-wedding-203-2_43ac1069-6004-4ce2-8a99-6b00822852ab.jpeg?v=1762457580"},{"product_id":"flat-mali-wedding-beads-2966","title":"Flat Mali Wedding Beads (Bright)","description":"Mali Wedding beads are hand-made, and are presented to brides on their wedding days.  They were made in what was once known as Czechoslovakia, for trade in Africa.  They are worn throughout West Africa, specifically in Mali.  These beads are multicolored  and are shaped like flat, bubble.  Each strand is unique, and may vary from the strand pictured.  The glass beads are strung in a way that allows them to swivel around the cord. These beads are greatly treasured and worn by Fulani women.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThis strand measures approximately 24\" (in beads).  The strand pictured is a sample.  The strand shipped will be very similar.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950082501,"sku":"mali-wedding-211","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0774-1.png?v=1762457585"},{"product_id":"oval-glass-millefiori-beads","title":"Premium Oval Millefiori Beads (20x8mm)","description":"These exquisite millefiori beads are modeled after Venetian Trade Beads, made from multi-color chevron canes by slicing a glass cane, and forming it into the intricate flower designs these beads are known for.  Because each bead is handmade individually, each one is unique and different with beautiful colors and variety of patterns and reflect artistic taste and craftsmanship. Each bead measures approximately 20mm long by 8mm in diameter with about 30 beads per strand. Look carefully and you will see little flowers patterned into each bead.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950083205,"sku":"MILLE-OVL-273","price":26.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/shopify_DSC_0157_270efae9-1949-4fee-8876-86e360c25467.jpg?v=1762457586"},{"product_id":"rose-glass-millefiori-beads","title":"Rose Glass Millefiori Beads","description":"You are looking at a beautiful strand of rose, round Millefiori beads. Colorful and vibrant, these beads would make a great addition to any jewelry piece, or can simply be worn as is.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950083333,"sku":"MILLE-RND-RSE-201","price":19.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/mb201-2t_f6315c43-6f22-4c02-bf91-3f2c8d0a3dcd.jpeg?v=1762457586"},{"product_id":"cylindrical-millefiori-beads","title":"Millefiori Beads (Cylindrical)","description":"You are looking at a beautiful strand of round Millefiori beads. Colorful and vibrant, these beads would make a great addition to any jewelry piece, or can simply be worn as is.\nThese are not African beads.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950083461,"sku":"MILLE-CYL-MIX-245","price":24.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/mb245-2_546275f7-416c-4e28-a8d5-eb62ecbf25ba.jpeg?v=1762457587"},{"product_id":"dogon-mali-clay-spindle-beads-round","title":"Dogon Mali Clay Spindle Beads (Round)","description":"This beautiful strand of Mali Spindle Whorl beads is handmade with clay and individually inscribed. It is made by the Dogon tribe of Mali.  Designs on beads may vary.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950084101,"sku":"MALI-RND-CLAY-203","price":26.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/mc203-2t_5a975525-cba3-4659-871c-421081c10ee8.jpeg?v=1762457590"},{"product_id":"dogon-mali-clay-spindle-beads","title":"Dogon Mali Clay Spindle Beads (Round)","description":"This beautiful strand of Mali Spindle Whorl beads is handmade with clay and individually inscribed.  It is made by the Dogon tribe of Mali.  Shape and designs may vary.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950084293,"sku":"MALI-CLAY-204","price":26.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/mc204-2t_f9ee5fbe-13ab-42a5-868f-b5bc1fe0524d.jpeg?v=1759251820"},{"product_id":"dogon-mali-clay-spindle-beads-1598","title":"Dogon Mali Clay Spindle Beads (Bicone)","description":"This beautiful strand of Mali Spindle Whorl beads is handmade with clay and individually inscribed.  It is made by the Dogon tribe of Mali.  Designs on beads may vary.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950084421,"sku":"MALI-BIC-CLAY- 205","price":26.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/mc205-2t.jpeg?v=1759251821"},{"product_id":"millefiori-trade-beads","title":"Cylindrical Millefiori Beads (18x8mm)","description":"Admire this beautiful strand of glass millefiori beads. Look closely and you will see different colored flowers hand fused into each bead. Each bead measures approximately 18 x 8mm with a hole size of approximately 3-4mm. You will receive a full strand measuring approximately 24 inches.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950089733,"sku":"millefiori-208","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/shopify_385_3a1efba9-3546-46c5-a69e-00e128d0825c.jpg?v=1762457607"},{"product_id":"millefiori-beads-small-round","title":"Millefiori Beads (Small, Round)","description":"You are looking at a beautiful strand of round Millefiori beads. Colorful and vibrant, these beads would make a great addition to any jewelry piece, or can simply be worn as is.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950089861,"sku":"millefiori-209","price":24.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/millefiori-209-2_aefb9177-f155-4849-a70a-5545b31390d0.jpeg?v=1759251854"},{"product_id":"millefiori-beads-large-round","title":"Round Millefiori Beads (16mm)","description":"You are looking at a beautiful strand of round Millefiori beads. Colorful and vibrant, these beads would make a great addition to any jewelry piece, or can simply be worn as is. Beads measure approximately 15-17mm x 15-17mm with a hole size of approximately 3-4mm. You will receive a full strand measuring approximately 24 inches.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950089989,"sku":"millefiori-210","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/shopify_368_7e1746ea-7655-421f-87f9-c3312141bc38.jpg?v=1762457607"},{"product_id":"cameo-white-gold-millefiori-beads","title":"Cameo White \u0026 Gold Millefiori Beads","description":"You are looking at a beautiful strand of cameo white and gold round Millefiori beads. These exquisite beads would make a great addition to any jewelry piece, or can simply be worn as is.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950090309,"sku":"MILLE-RND-BRN-234","price":19.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/img_9524-1_54e3c11b-d227-45f8-aa43-2f668f5288d2.jpeg?v=1762457610"},{"product_id":"white-pink-flower-millefiori-beads","title":"White \u0026 Pink Flower Millefiori Beads","description":"You are looking at a beautiful strand of cameo white and gold round Millefiori beads. These exquisite beads would make a great addition to any jewelry piece, or can simply be worn as is.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950090437,"sku":"MILLE-OVL-PNK-235","price":22.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/millefiori-beads-235-2_90f52bf4-c777-4e9b-8e17-465fcc72a6aa.jpeg?v=1759251860"},{"product_id":"black-padre-beads","title":"Vintage Black Padre Beads","description":"Take a look this unusual long strand of black padre beads. Padre beads in this color are rare to find. The strand measures about 28\"! Each bead measures approximately 8mm in length and 10mm in diameter. Number of beads in each strand depends on the size of the beads. Some strands may be strung on string and others on raffia.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950105413,"sku":"PADR-RND-BLK-203","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/padre-203-2_8fb1d34d-aa01-4f6d-9f9e-8b8b4ce54bd3.jpeg?v=1762457681"},{"product_id":"blue-padre-beads","title":"Old Padre Beads (Blue)","description":"This strand is said to be old and rare due to its unusual color and length. The strand measures longer than 32\"! Each bead measures approximately 5 - 7 mm in length.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950105605,"sku":"PADR-RND-BLU-204","price":32.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/padre-204-2_f1352cec-ae7f-46c0-9ecb-c145a2e80c0c.jpeg?v=1762457681"},{"product_id":"green-padre-beads","title":"Deep Green Padre Beads (8mm)","description":"Take a moment to admire the captivating allure of these amazing Deep Green Padre Beads. These handmade glass beads exude charm and can add a sense of depth and vibrancy to almost any jewelry piece. Perfect for bold and imaginative designs, these beads can easily create an eye-catching shimmering effect, especially when showcased under natural sunlight. Each bead measures roughly 6 x 8mm with a hole size of about 3mm. You will receive one full strand measuring approximately 24\" in length. Add these striking glass beads to your collection today!","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950105733,"sku":"padre-205","price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0411.jpg?v=1762457682"},{"product_id":"white-padre-beads","title":"Old White Padre Beads","description":"These white padre beads are found in Ethiopia, East Africa. Originally European made and have been traded in African in the late 1800 early 1900's. The beads are approx. 10mm in diameter. Beads may show signs of age as shown in picture.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950105797,"sku":"PADR-RND-WHT-209","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0181-1-1.png?v=1762457682"},{"product_id":"amber-padre-beads","title":"Amber Round Padre Beads","description":"These amber glass padre beads are found in Ethiopia, East Africa. Originally European made and have been traded in African in the late 1800 early 1900's. The beads are approx. 10mm in diameter.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950105861,"sku":"PADR-RND-YLW-210","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/products\/padre-210-2_bf97e2ff-f88b-41f6-9cdd-d5fe4a3785cc.jpeg?v=1762457684"},{"product_id":"rose-padre-beads","title":"Rose Round Ethiopian Padre Beads","description":"These rose padre beads are found in Ethiopia, East Africa. Originally European made and have been traded in African in the late 1800 early 1900's. The beads are approximately 8mm in diameter.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950106053,"sku":"PADR-RND-PNK-211","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0026-1_a97db39a-069c-4bee-b601-799bff6178fe.png?v=1762457684"},{"product_id":"vermilion-padre-beads-4179","title":"Vermilion Red Round Ethiopian Padre Beads","description":"These vermilion padre beads are found in Ethiopia, East Africa. Originally European made and have been traded in African in the late 1800 early 1900's. The beads are approx. 8mm in diameter. Beautiful strand. Back in stock after a long time!","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950106181,"sku":"PADR-RND-RED-212","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0346-1_547304e8-90b8-4dcd-b62c-9b52d4f41693.png?v=1762457685"},{"product_id":"turquoise-padre-beads","title":"Turquoise Blue Padre Beads","description":"These blue padre beads are found in Ethiopia, East Africa. Originally European Made and have been traded in African in the late 1800 early 1900's. The beads are approx. 7-8mm in diameter.","brand":"The Bead Chest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16950106245,"sku":"PADR-RND-BLU-206","price":36.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/8152\/files\/shopify_DSC_0106.png?v=1762457685"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.thebeadchest.com\/collections\/african-trade-beads.oembed?page=69","provider":"The Bead Chest","version":"1.0","type":"link"}