What is Murano and Moretti Glass?

Murano, a charming island nestled within the lagoon near Venice, has been a sanctuary for glassworking factories since the 12th Century. The art of glassmaking in Venice itself traces its origins back to the time of the mighty Roman Empire. By the 8th Century, Venice had earned a distinguished reputation as a prominent centre for glass production.

To protect their craft and maintain quality control, the glassmakers formed a guild in the city. In 1271, a law was enacted, forbidding the importation of glass from foreign lands and the employment of foreign glassworkers. Recognizing the potential risks of fires caused by the furnaces, a subsequent law was established in 1291. It mandated the relocation of the glass factories from Venice to the safer confines of the Island of Murano. This move not only mitigated the threat of fire but also safeguarded the intellectual property of the glassmakers.

Today, the rich tradition of glassmaking thrives on Murano. Skilled artisans continue to shape molten glass into exquisite objects, including the beads we offer. The exclusive producer of Murano glass, Effetre, upholds the same time-honoured techniques discovered centuries ago by Vincenzo Moretti, who was then known as Moretti glass.

Effetre glass, composed of soda-lime, boasts a relatively low melting point of 945°C. It is available in various forms such as rough blocks, frits, rods, tubes, and sheets. In our case, the beadmakers utilize rods in a stunning array of 200 colors and different levels of transparency.

To be deemed an authentic Murano glass piece, it must be crafted from Effetre glass by an artisan on the island of Murano. Beware of misrepresentation, as it is not uncommon to encounter beads falsely labeled as "Murano glass" originating from other countries, particularly India and China, and crafted from alternative types of glass. Such imitations often fall short in terms of quality and craftsmanship.

When you choose genuine Murano glass, you embrace a legacy of exceptional artistry and enduring beauty. Indulge in the allure of true Murano beads, knowing that they embody the heritage and excellence of this remarkable Venetian tradition.

See our range of genuine Murano glass beads here