Vintage African Trade Bead Necklace Millefiori Vaseline glass Pipestone 19"

Description

This is a beautiful vintage trade bead necklace.  I purchased this necklace from a street vendor in Seattle in the early 90's who was actually from Africa and selling all kinds of antique African trade bead necklaces. I recall you could pick out the strand of beads you wanted and he would add the hook and eye while you waited.  It's strung on some cord or thick string with metal findings.  The hook shows tarnish so could be sterling or sterling plate. The beads consist 18 antique blue Venetian or Italian vaseline glass,10 African rustic brass bicone beads, blue and brown trade bead spacers and the center is a lovely one inch long antique blue and deep brownish rust millefiori bead.  It is flanked by four African pipestone beads. The beads alone are striking, but it doesn't end there!  Four African brass pendants were added as well, making this a statement necklace for sure. Each is slightly over 2 inches long.  I can not find any similar to identify their shape.  They look like modified spoon pendants, except each has two circular cutouts - almost resembling a face. These beads  were used as trade beads hundreds of years ago.   It is in excellent condition with no damage - was worn only a few times and stored since.   All the beads are in wonderful condition.  The total weight is a substantial 62 grams and 19 inches long including the hook and eye closure. This is a beautiful ethnic piece of jewelry rich in history and a great addition to any collection.