Trade Beads – Blue Russian Small A

Trade Beads – Blue Russian Small A

Trade Beads - Blue Russian Small A

This strand of Trade Beads - Blue Russian Small A will make for a great addition to any collection! Russian trade beads refers to a specific type of beads with multiple facets. Likewise, Blue Russian trade beads come in varying shades of blue. Russian explorers traded them to the Native Americans in Alaska and Canada starting in the 1700s. Their appeal lies in their Cobalt Blue color and their faceted appearance. Blue Russian Beads likely originated in Czechoslovakia. Russian traders may have purchased them directly from traders in Europe, or possibly from the Hudson Bay Company.

History of Trade Beads

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 America. European glass beads, mostly from Venice, 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 operated during the 19th century. They ventured into the North American continent for trade expeditions.
There are 156 Blue Russian Small A beads on this 26" long strand. They are various shades of blue and measure approximately 1/8" wide and 1/8"  long on average. There are two other similar strands available, look for "B" and "C" on the Trade Bead page!
One of a Kind!
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This item has sold but we have archived it for reference purposes. You may find a similar item available at WanderingBull.com. Please click on the links below to see what we have currently in stock.

We are always interested in buying Native American collections and One of a Kind items. For more information please call us 800-430-2855 or email Chris Bullock at chris@wanderingbull.com

Categories: BeadsTrade Beads

SKU: 2222-002-512-A

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