Watermelon Chevron Venetian Trade Beads

Venetian Chevron beads, considered the most exquisite among Venetian Trade Beads, are produced through a meticulous process involving layering different colored glasses in a 12-point star mold. Also known as "Rosetta" and "Star" beads, these highly collectible beads evolved from seven layers in the late 1400s to include 8, 9, 10, 3, and 5 layers in subsequent centuries. Global trade, particularly with Dutch traders introducing them in Africa in the late 1400s, led to their widespread popularity. Rare 7-layer Chevrons found in Peru are attributed to Christopher Columbus. While still crafted in Venice, contemporary Chevron bead production is limited, with variations in India and China. Renowned modern Chevron bead makers include Art Seymour in the United States and Luigi Cattelan in Italy. Counting the layers from the innermost to the outermost, typically identified by different colors, Chevron beads continue to be highly sought after globally, symbolizing prestige in Africa where they are worn at ceremonies and even buried with the deceased.