Vintage Italian large oval Murano-glass beads with a golden shimmer inside, finished with a gold-tone barrel clasp.

Murano glassmaking is a centuries-old Venetian tradition, renowned for its artistry and innovation. During the mid-20th century (1950s–1970s), Murano workshops perfected the technique of embedding delicate sheets of gold leaf within blown glass, producing bold and luminous beads for jewelry. Such pieces became highly fashionable in Italy and were sought after by international travelers as luxury souvenirs.

Today, necklaces like this one are considered collectible, valued for both their craftsmanship and historical connection to Murano’s golden age of glass artistry. Larger gold-foil beads, as seen here, are especially prized by collectors, making this necklace not only a beautiful accessory but also a piece of wearable art with enduring cultural significance.