Crystal Jewellery Making Beads
One of the prettiest and most important types of jewellery-making supplies, crystal beads add an element of sparkle and shine to any piece, including earrings, necklaces or bracelets. Jewellery beads come in a variety of shapes and colours to customise any type of accessory and give it just the right amount of shimmer. When you combine crystal beads with other jewellery findings, you can create individualised pieces for everyday or special-occasion wear.
What Are Some Crystal Bead Shapes?
When you think of beads, you probably think of round beads that you string on cord or thread to create a necklace or bracelet. Crystal beads offer a bit more versatility, however, as they come in multiple shapes that can change the way an accessory looks and add texture and dimension to pieces. Some bead shapes to look for include teardrop, which has a slightly elongated design; bicone, which are pointed on each end; and rondelle beads, which are faceted and reflect the light as it bounces off your jewellery. Classic shapes include round, oval, square and cube.
What Styles of Beads Are Available?
No two crystal bead designs are created alike, and the variety of bead styles makes handmade accessories more interesting. Combine more than one style for visual appeal, or stick with one bead style depending on your preference. For a vintage or aged look, antiqued beads have a distressed look that embraces the shabby-chic aesthetic. Shamballa beads are covered in sparkly, shiny crystals and have a distinct look. At 10 mm, they're larger than some beads and help to make standout creations. Other styles include faceted, which are cut to reflect light, and crackled, which have a cracked appearance.
What Are Some Bead Finishes?
Once you select the style and shape of the beads you desire, picking a finish is yet another factor to consider. Beads range from high-shine glossy designs to matte looks to metallic beads that make great accent beads in between other finishes or to break up different design types in a piece of jewellery. Frosted beads have an opaque appearance, while pearlized beads simulate the swirling gleam of pearls. All bead finishes are available in a spectrum of colours, which include solid colours as well as multicoloured options.