Chevron beads are a special type of glass beads. The first specimens of this type were created by glass bead makers in Venice and Murano, Italy, toward the end of the 14th century. Chevron beads are drawn beads, made from glass canes, which are shaped using specifically constructed star moulds. Each bead is composed of a varied number of consecutive layers of colored glasses. The initial core is formed from a molten ball of glass that was melted in a furnace. Several layers of glass are then added to create either a star-shaped or smooth effect for each layer. After all layers have been applied, metal plates are affixed to the still hot glass, which is drawn out into a long rod, called a ‘cane’, by pulling from both ends in opposite directions. The cooled glass cane is cut into short segments which reveal a star pattern in cross-section. The segments will be ground afterwards to reveal the characteristic chevron pattern. The first chevron beads were introduced to West Africa by Dutch merchants in the late 15th century. Chevron beads are still highly valued in present-day West Africa where they continue to be worn on ceremonial occasions. Prices are mentioned on the photos. Please click on 'Chevrons' on the left side of this page.