Trade Beads – Assorted Skunk Beads

Trade Beads - Assorted Skunk Beads

These Trade Beads - Assorted Skunk Beads are a must have for any bead enthusiast! These trade beads were originally made in Venice and brought Africa during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today skunk beads are a rare and special bead for the discerning crafter. The majority of beads on this strand are black with white, red, and pale blue dots. There is an additional black bead with white, pale purple, and shiny copper stripes (see photo.)
From the 15th to the 20th century, traders carried European glass beads across the world. The beads were highly desired by Native Americans as glass was then an unknown substance in North American. European glass beads, mostly from Venice, some from Holland and, later, from Poland and Czechoslovakia, became popular and sought after by Native Americans. Europeans realized early on that beads were important to Native Americans and corporations such as the Hudson Bay Trading Company developed lucrative bead-trading markets with them. The Hudson Bay Trading Company was an organized group of explorers who ventured into the North American continent for trade expeditions during the 19th century.
There are 47 beads in this strand, each measuring from approximately 3/8" to 5/8" long and strung on natural fiber. Some beads have minor chips, this is a testament to their age.
One of a Kind!
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Categories: BeadsTrade Beads

SKU: 2222-002-446

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