Beads Jewellery

Beads are an integral part of the jewellery industry. They can be used in various forms, from simple beaded chains to highly ornate necklaces.

Artisans carefully carve out beads from various materials including wood, glass, stone and even costly metals like gold and silver. They might not always be round in shape. One can find oval, square, tubular and other geometrically shaped beads as well. The main attraction is that they come in various colours, and are hence popular among all the jewellery lovers.

It is believed that bead art dates back to over 5000 years. People used to drill out beads from naturally occurring materials. Wood and stone jewellery were as prominent then as they are today. Animal skin and bones were used to make beads, and they were then tied up together to form an artistic miracle of a neck-piece or a bracelet.

The whole craft of jewellery making started with bead creation.
It is quite evident that beads were carved out of wood back in the day, but today, there are lots of materials used for the same purpose.
Some of the kinds of beads that are being made and used today are explained here-

• Bugle beads-These are tubular and are used to add spaces in between larger beads.
• Rivoli-Chatons or Rivoli are crystal beads that are cut in unique facets. They also have a pointed rear end to let the light pass and sparkle. These are mostly used to create beautiful necklaces and often stand as the centrepiece of any ornament.
• Glass beads- Glass beads are mostly light-weight and exude a vibe of sophistication. It is made by pulling out a hot gathered glass and shaping it into different designs. Acrylic paint is used to create more appeal to them.
• Charms- Charms are unique as they are personalized beads in assorted shapes and sizes. One can honour a loved one or convey their state of mind with a collection of charms. They are widely used to string in bracelets and are considered as expensive accessorizing material.
• Ivory- Ivory is elegant, rare and extremely precious. Even so, it is believed to attract good luck, and hence, people try to own it at any cost. Elephant tusks are generally used for the purpose which makes it frowned upon! These beads are used in jewellery and also for decorating homes.
• Pearls- Pearl beads have been popular since ancient times. However, nowadays everyone can afford them and enjoy the majestic aura as they come in various qualities.
  These are the main kinds of beads incorporated in jewellery making. Many others such as seed beads, non-precious gems etc. too ensure their place in adornments.