Murano Glass Necklaces

A Venetian necklace is a small anthology of techniques. Sommerso submerges one colour inside another so the bead glows from within; filigrana twists fine white or coloured threads through clear glass; murrina slices a patterned cane and fuses the flowers onto the surface. Each bead is wound by hand over the flame, so colour and size vary slightly along the strand — read more in our guide to Murano techniques.

A short strand sits at the base of the throat and frames an open neckline; a long strand falls over a jumper or a dress and can be doubled. Larger beads want space around them, so they suit simple, plain clothing; small beads work under a collar. Every listing gives the exact length and bead size, and the photographs are taken on black so the real colour of the glass is what you see.

Store a necklace lying flat rather than hanging: over years, hanging puts constant tension on the thread. Keep it apart from other jewelry so beads are not scratched by metal, and put it on after perfume. Clean with a soft cloth, slightly damp, and dry it before putting it away — our care guide has the full routine. Matching earrings and bracelets are part of the same collection.

Both names point to the same lagoon. Glassmaking is Venetian; since 1291 it has been done on Murano, where the Republic moved the furnaces to keep fire away from the city. A Venetian necklace in glass is therefore a Murano one.

Length changes the piece more than any other choice. A 42–45 cm strand sits at the collarbone and suits an open neckline; 50–60 cm falls onto the chest and carries a larger central bead; longer ropes can be doubled. Because each bead is drawn by hand, two necklaces of the same design are never quite identical — which is the point of them.