Padre Beads are a variety of wound glass trade beads originally imported across the world especially to Africa and the Americas by Spanish Missionaries, Monks, Friars and Traders who used them as a form of currency. They carry a fascinating history. The name Padre Bead is derived from the fact that these beads were worn by Spanish priests who were called "‘padres"’ meaning "‘father"’ in the Spanish language. These great beads come in several different colors and hues.

The name Padre Bead is derived from the fact that these beads were worn by Spanish priests who were called ‘padres’ meaning ‘father’ in the Spanish language. Some of these beads may have been part of the rosaries that Catholic priests would carry. The period during which they Padre Beads believed to have been first used is between the 16th and 18th centuries. Because of this extended history, Padre beads tend to carry a lot of history along with them.