Discovered along the western coast of Africa near the historic trading post of Juffureh (modern-day The Gambia), these ocean-tumbled glass beads are believed to be the remnants of a 14th-century shipwreck. While never used in trade, centuries of exposure to the sea have given them a unique patina and polished texture—each one naturally aged by the Atlantic’s waves.

These beads once played a vital role in early African-European trade networks. Imported glass beads, especially from Venice, were widely exchanged for goods throughout the continent. At the same time, West African centers like Ile-Ife in Nigeria produced their own distinctive high-alumina glass beads, used as status symbols, currency, and ritual objects.

Comes with an informational card detailing the historical background of these fascinating artifacts.