16 Ghost Venetian Black Trade Beads

These were originally made as floral beads but were named "Ghost" beads at the beginning of the trade bead revival in the 1970s.

Trade beads, often made of glass, were crucial in historical trade between Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. They were more than just decorative items; they served as currency, symbols of status, and carriers of cultural stories. Produced mainly in Europe, these beads gained immense popularity in Africa, where they were exchanged for valuable resources. Today, these beads are cherished by collectors and artists alike for their beauty, historical significance, and the stories they tell about global trade and cultural exchange.

16 Beads
Bead Size: 15-16 mm diameter. See picture with penny for size comparison.

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