Murano glass products date back to the 8th or 9th century in Rome. Venice was a bustling port of trade at the time and took full advantage of its ideal placement to get a monopoly on the glassmaking industry. Under the pretense of fire protection, the glassmakers of Venice were removed to the island of Murano in 1291. It is from this location that the glass products got their name. The true reason for sending glassmakers away from the city is believe be not a fear of fire, but rather the desire to protect glassmaking trade secrets as closely as possible.
For centuries, Murano enjoyed prominence in the glassmaking industry. A wide variety of techniques were mastered and practiced here. Murano glassmakers produced enameled glass, milk glass, multicolored glass and even glass containing imitation gemstones. Political turmoil in the 17th and 18th centuries slowed the progress and production of these glass products, but the art of this intricate form of glassmaking was revived in the 19th and 20th centuries and still thrives today. Murano glass products can include a wide range of items both practical and decorative, but one of the lasting icons of the Murano glass industry is the simple decorative bead.
Even when nearly all other forms of glass production were shut down, Murano glassmakers continued to produce small glass beads in their signature style. The brilliant colors, intricate designs and one-of-a-kind handmade beauty of these glass beads have made them unfailingly popular for centuries. A stunning chandelier or collection of vases can only be displayed in the home, but these glass beads are a form of walking art that can travel with the wearer everywhere she goes. Though small, Murano glass beads are also able to convey nearly all of the techniques which make Italys stunning handmade glass products so famous.
Vivid designs are one of the hallmarks of Murano glass products. Modern glass beads made in this style often feature sharp geometric designs, floral prints or images of wildlife. The color options are seemingly unlimited from delicate rose pink to bright turquoise blue. Murano glassmakers also use techniques which allow them to imbed metallic shimmers or a shattered effect in the glass. Millefiori beads are made by layering colors over one another to create results which are fantastically intricate and undeniably eye-catching for any piece of jewelry. From humble origins in the heart of Italy to a modern sensation, the style of Murano glass jewelry has proven staying power.
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