During the late Middle Ages and throughout the Renaissance, Venetian artisans rediscovered the ancient secrets of glass making. On the island of Murano, they created superb vessels and jewelry which were valued throughout the known world. It was also during this period that Venice became the most powerful trading nation in Europe, a city whose ships visited every port both east and west. Venetian traders used glass beads for barter, and these jewels became especially prized in Africa, where they were traded for gold, ivory, rare woods and spices. Venetian beads quickly became a medium of exchange throughout Africa, and in some tribes were used as a bridal dowry. The rare and subtle beauty of these beads continues to dazzle the senses even after the passage of centuries. Agate, another variety of the quartz family formed in the recesses of volcanic rocks, is found in a variety of colors: red, green, blue, brown, gray and striped. Since Antiquity, agate has been one of the most popular stones for talismans and amulets, and remarkable powers are ascribed to each of the different varieties. The use of agate amulets bas continued unabated into modern times, though early examples exist from the Sumerian and Egyptian cultures, dating back four millennia before Christ. In addition to jewelry, agate was carved into cups, dishes and works of art. The Roman naturalist Pliny records that pharmacists favored mortar and pestles crafted from agate, a practice that is still common. It is a good antidote for poison, and is said to quicken the intelligence. All varieties of agate are useful for curing insomnia and inducing pleasant dreams and are thought to have a universally positive effect on those who wear them. Origin: Africa Circa: 1600 BC to 1800 BC Collection: African Medium: Glass-Agate

Antiquities
Ancient Jewelry