Murano is an archipelago of islands linked by bridges. It lies about a mile north of Venice and is famous for its glass making, particularly lampworking.
In 1291, all the glassmakers in Venice were forced to move to Murano due to the fire risk that their ovens posed to the predominantly wooden structures of 13th century Venice. In the following century, Murano became famous for glass beads and mirrors, later for chandeliers.
Today, the artisans of Murano are still employing century-old techniques, crafting a wide range of beautiful wares.
There are many imitations and mass-producers (notably from China) and these components should never be called “Murano” but instead, for example “Murano style”.