Trade Beads 1x2mm to 6x5mm

These glass beads were first made in Venice for trade with Africans in the early 1800’s. The origin of the term "Christmas beads" is unclear. African traders have offered the explanation that the colors are happy and Christmas is a happy time. The beads feature all the colors of the rainbow, but predominantly yellow and red. Various shapes, assorted small sizes and patterns combine to form a single approximately 36" long strand. They have also been called "Love Beads" because they resemble strands worn by hippies in the 1960s and 70s.