Antique Venetian Feather Bead Fragments

Feather beads are recognizable by the distinctive symmetric motif that resembles the feather of a bird. This design was created by a skilled artisan using colored glass on the surface of the bead. While the exact origins of the feather design is not known, it is believed to be quite old and is also found on some more ancient beads from the Roman and Islamic period. In fact, these may be the inspiration for the designs that was produced in the workshops of Venice during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. These beads have been fashioned from the repurposed fragments of old feather beads that have been grinded on the tapering ends. Each unique strand is comprised of approximately 42 beads measuring 16-20 x 9mm and 26" in length. Each strand is unique and may vary slightly from photo. Limited supply!