For your consideration are two cobalt blue Russian trade glass bead strands, circa 1800s. These beautiful blue pieces show a faceted glass trade bead originally traded by the Russians to the Alaska Natives in exchange for Sea Otter pelts or anything else they might want. The beads were a desirable form of currency. Each strand shows a graduating size of glass beads, and a deep blue cobalt color. The majority of the beads show a smooth finish with a few mixed throughout that have a rougher feel. The smaller necklace displays 48 beads on a leather strand, and the longer necklace shows 69 beads on a cotton strand. These show in good condition with light wear due to age. They measure approximately 10.5" and 12" in strung length.