Red Greenhearts Venetian Trade Beads 32Inch MATTER COLLECTION

Red Green Hearts Venetian trade beads, a striking form of Trade Beads, were produced in Venice and circulated widely through global trade routes connecting Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Known for their vivid red exterior and contrasting green core, these beads were highly valued for their bold color and layered glass construction.

Beyond their decorative appeal, they functioned as currency, symbols of status, and carriers of cultural meaning. In Africa, they were widely exchanged for valuable resources and became integrated into local adornment traditions and trade systems.

Today, Red Green Hearts beads are highly sought after by collectors for their distinctive visual character, craftsmanship, and their place within the broader history of global trade and cultural exchange.

Provenance: Matter Collection

From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.

This strand is not intended to be a ready-to-wear necklace. Although the strand can be worn "as is," the string holding it together is not durable and may break with use. For this reason, we recommend that you restring the beads before wearing them.

Strand Length: 32 inches (including string/raffia)
Bead Size: 5-9 mm diameter. See picture with ruler for size comparison. (US penny is 19mm)

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