Glass Beads - Our Own Production

Handmade Glass Beads - Our Own Production

Pandora-Style Beads

Our Assorted Glass Beads

Our Gold & Silver Glass Beads

Our Organic Glass Beads

Our Hollow Core Glass Beads

Our Bead Sets

Bead Makers Statement: The Round-Round Bead

A number of years ago we were fortunate to receive a large order from Chanel of France. The job itself lasted for a number of months and the majority of the beads we made for them were hollow core beads. For those that don't know, hollow core beads are generally made using a thin thread of glass to build two concave cups alongside one another, joining the two in the center and creating an internal cavity. The bead is then rotated slowly and steadily in the flame as the glass melts and the air inside the cavity heats and slowly begins to puff out the body of the bead. I mention this because it was during this process that I learned how to make a bead that is naturally round and consistently centered.

As jewelry designers know, there are few things more frustrating than working with beads that have holes that are not centered, or wonky as the Brits say. Years and countless thousands of beads later I have learned to apply the above-mentioned technique to all of the beads that we make here at BeadedLily, not just hollow beads. This means that the beads you order from us will always be well-balanced and have bead holes that are beautifully centered.

*All of the beads we produce here in our Tuscany glass studio are created using Moretti/Effetre glass rods purchased on the Venetian island of Murano. Our handmade glass beads are fully annealed and cleaned prior to shipping. Beads are fully inspected prior to shipment.

*Most of our handmade beads are created using a thin 1mm - 2mm mandrel, which leaves a bead hole of that same measurement. However, some beads are better served using a larger 3mm mandrel which also allows the bead to be strung on leather, silver wire etc. Upon request we can use a specific mandrel size, if you like. At checkout you'll have the opportunity to include a note with your order, at which time you can state your preference, if indeed you have one.

*Keep in mind that we also do Wholesale Bead orders. If you are a designer or bead store owner-operator with visions of adding a truly unique line of beads, consider working with us. Our minimums are usually within reach of even start-up businesses. If you are interested or have questions please visit our Wholesale page.

*Because most of our handmade beads are made to order, there is usually a creation period that must be factored in when you are determining when your beads might arrive. Generally orders that include our handmade beads ship out about 4 days after the order was placed. Larger orders, of course, will take a bit longer.

*In creating and recreating our handmade beads we strive first and foremost for beauty, balance and form. Please keep in mind that there may be slight variances in size and shape.