What Are The Different Types Of Craft Beads?

There are many different types of craft beads available in the shops today. Most people will use glass at least to start with as it is available in a range of colors, sizes and is relatively inexpensive. Children will tend to use either glass or plastic beads when making their necklaces or bracelets. A form of glass that is often used in beadwork is crystal. Crystal has a higher lead content than normal glass which makes it more expensive.

 The most expensive crystal beads will be hand faceted. Craft beads are also made from semiprecious stones also known as gemstones plus other materials such as pearls and corals. If you are planning on using pearls to make or decorate another piece of jewelry you should ensure that the pearls do not against each other or against other beads as it will damage their coating.

 One way to achieve this is to tie small knots between each bead used throughout the piece. Precious stones including rubies and emeralds are rarely used. This is due to the high cost involved. However, it is possible to find low grade or very small stones available for use as beads if you really want to include one of these stones in your work. Craft beads are also made from precious and semi precious metals.

Gold and silver beads are quite common although it is unusual to find beads made from platinum which is the most expensive commonly available precious metal. Precious metal beads tend to be hollow which can make them difficult to work with. 18 carat gold will be more expensive than nine carat beads. The grade of silver will have an impact on the price of the beads. You can find gold and silver beads in a variety of different shapes, sizes and textures and they will create amazing pieces of jewelry.