About Lampwork Beads

 

Lampwork beads are not mass produced.  They are created one at a time by very gifted and talented glass bead artists.  Lampwork beads are made using colorful glass rods (usually Italian Moretti glass).  The rod is melted using a oxygen and propane torch and then winding and sculpting the glass onto a stainless steel rod called a mandrel.  Cooling the bead properly is very important.  To prevent cracks, each bead is cooled in a kiln, where temperatures are closely regulated.  This is called anealing.  The slow reduction in temperature produces glass beads with fewer stress points, so they're less likely to crack.

 

While it is possible to make similar beads of a certain style or color, each bead will vary slightly in shape, color and size.  Each bead will always be just a little different from another. 

 

I choose beads from qualified bead makers who have experience and knowledge in lampwork beads.  For this reason, the lampwork jewerly tends to be more expensive.  Each piece is designed and crafted with great attention to detail.

 

This is a picture of a glass artist making lampwork beads.

 

 

What is Bali and/or Hill Tribe Silver?

Bali silver is hand-crafted sterling silver beads that are created in Bali, Indonesia.  Each bead is uniquely created by hand by skilled silversmiths.  Hilltribe Silver is more pure silver that is created by Karen Hilltribes in Thailand and can be expensive also.  These silver beads are worth it as it enhances the pieces created.  I try to price each piece fairly while factoring in all of these things.  I try to use the best quality materials available. 

 

Care Instructions

You may polish your sterling silver components with a silver polish cloth to help maintain their beauty.  DO NOT use abrasive chemical cleaners.  Wearing your jewelry while sleeping, swimming or during sports activities is not recommended.  The silver-plated components are maintenance free.

 

Shipping

Your jewelry will arrive wrapped in a small zip-lock plastic bag, with proper padding and packaging so that it will not be damaged.  I charge a 5% of sales shipping fee.

 

Jewelry Returns

I want you to love your Handcrafted Shimmering Starz Jewelry!!  If after receving your order you are not happy, please contact me within 7 days to arrange for its return.  Upon its arrival in good condition, I will refund the purchase price less the cost of shipping.  I will accept jewelry in excellent condition --  NO Used items will be refunded.

 

Payment

For your convenience and protection, I accept secure payment through PayPal.  You do not need to be a PayPal member to place an order.  I also accept checks and money orders.  However, your jewelry will not be shipped until your personal check has been cleared. 

 

Custom Orders

I delight in custom orders for my customers.  If there is anything you see in the Gallery or on the website that you would like altered to suit your needs, please let me know.  I will make every effort to make you a beautiful piece of jewelry. 

 

 

Thank you for your time

I hope you Enjoy my....