Made in Japan: Island Cove to debut limited collection of vintage Japanese Cherry Brand beads
October 01, 2017
![Made in Japan: Island Cove to debut limited collection of vintage Japanese Cherry Brand beads]()
In recent years, Island Cove Beads & Gallery has presented special trunk shows inspired by ancient civilizations that created some of the world's most memorable and unique beads and artifacts. We have hosted themed parties to celebrate Colleen's award-winning Deco-Egyptian Bracelet and the glass lampwork of Venice, Italy. This October, join us as we explore another of the world's most prolific bead-making societies - Japan - and celebrate its contribution to the art of beading and jewelry design.
About Japanese Cherry Brand Beads:
- How old are vintage Cherry Brand beads? These special beads were created during the American Occupation of Japan post World War II, from 1945-1952. Production is said to have peaked in 1951, and orders declined at the end of the U.S. Occupation.
- Who are the artisans behind this collection? Believe it or not, the artisans were full-time rice farmers who developed their glasswork skills during non-harvest times. They set up "flamework stations" at home, often working in the evening hours after their farm work was complete.
- Where do they come from? Cherry Brand beads hail from the glass districts of Osaka, Japan, where artisans have been hand-making glass pearls and beads since the 3rd century.
- Why do some Cherry Brand beads resemble Venetian and Czech glass beads? During the Occupation period, American bead dealers brought samples of other Western beads to the Osaka-based artisans and presented them as inspiration. Many dealers requested the Japanese beads resemble the Western samples as closely as possible.
- Were Cherry Brand beads considered "trade beads"? According to Dolce Street's article on Cherry Brand beads, "Glass beads were one of the top items that obtained foreign currency for Japan and made a great contribution to the re-construction of the war damaged Japan and its economy."
Island Cove to host a Japanese Twilight Garden Party in October:
These limited Japanese glass beads will be available at Island Cove on the evening of October 28th at 6:30pm. In addition, Andrew will be folding Origami for donations to a Children's Mission, and we will serve appetizers and drinks. Feel free to wear a kimono or other Japanese-themed garb and accessories if you have them!
- What to expect? Trays of individual glass beads and cabochons, strands of beads including many with the original "Made in Japan" labels still intact, ranging in colors and sizes. RSVP here.
- Plus, Island Cove stocks Tulip brand needles from Japan, Miyuki seed beads, and Japanese-themed koi fish charms.
- Also plan to shop the boutique for limited edition Japanese-themed gifts created by Island Cove's local artists. These special pieces include cherry blossom gem trees by Jerri Heer, bead embroidered Japanese china pendants by Debbye Mika as well as Jerri Heir, painted and embellished boxes by Catherine Valle, Japanese Water Garden lampwork glass beads by Lea Zinke, and handmade cherry blossom scented "Sakura Spring" soaps by Beryl Coder.
