African snake beads are known not only for their beautiful looks, but for their beautiful history as well. Although today's glass snake beads were created more recently, the originals dated back to the 1800's. In old ages, they were created in Europe. They played an important role in creating interaction between Africa and Europe, and were later used in trade within Africa.

African snake beads come in two forms: authentic vertebrae beads, and colored glass snake beads. Both types of African beads are elegant when worn as is, or when used in creating African or ethnic jewelry. Most strands run 24"-30", and the glass snake beads typically come in pink, blue, red, and green colors, as well as mixed variations. Sizes of snake and vertebrae beads vary.