Original Hebron trade beads blue-green #2

It is known that Hebron, the ancient city of Palestine, had a glass factory from before the birth of Christ. Simple blue-green and yellow glass beads like these were made and traded along silk and spice routes to Africa.  These Nigerian beads have been dated to mid-1800 and were excavated in Africa about fifty years ago. 

Traditionally, the glass was melted using local raw materials such as salt from the Dead Sea. Nowadays, recycled glass is often used instead.

Trade Beads are beads that have been used as a form of currency for the exchange of goods and services especially in West Africa. Now they are appreciated world wide by thousands of bead collectors, wearers, and enthusiasts.

Not only are they worth treasuring, but they should be worn and loved to keep them alive.