Every one seems to be making glass beads today, but how do you determine the quality of a lampwork bead?

Difficulty Level: easy      Time Required: 10 minutes

1. Examine shapes. Are round beads round and square beads square, or are the shapes a little off?
2. Look at the inside of the beads. Are they clean or is there bead release stuck inside?
3. Count the number of colors used. The more colors the more time and materials were used by the artist.
4. Check the bead holes to ensure they are smooth and won’t cut your thread.
5. Look carefully for any cracks or chips in the glass.
6. Ask the artist how they anneal their beads. Glass beads will eventually break if not annealed.
   

1. Ultimately, buy what you like.
2. Familiarize yourself on how beads are made.
   

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