Murano or Venetian glass is known for its quality, range of color and superb artistry.  It has been made in Italy on the island of Murano since the 13th century.  The formula used to make Murano/Venetian glass permits a slowing hardening process than that of lead glass, allowing for greater flexibility in design work. The range of glassware produced was and is enormous, from small beads to large, sprawling pieces.