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It is very easy to say that a bead is pretty, but do you really want to choose your jewelry based on looks alone? Whether you are making your own jewelry or buying handmade jewelry from another, you want to know that your pieces are of quality and durability. This means understanding the differences between the different types of beads before you buy.
Types of Beads
There are several different categories of beads for jewelry making. The most common of these are:
GlassMetalCrystalPlasticSemi precious stonesWoodThere are a few other categories of beads as well, such as shell, bone and clay, but these are less common in handmade jewelry. Some of these have obvious differences. After all, the difference between metal and glass is like night and day. However, with other types of beads the differences may be more subtle.
Glass, Crystal, and Plastic
Glass, crystal and plastic are the three beads that cause the most confusion to amateur jewelry makers and those who look at costume jewelry. Glass, crystal and plastic beads can look very similar, and even seem similar to the touch. Plastic beads have come a long way, and are sometimes indistinguishable from glass in every way except weight.
Weight is the easiest way to tell the difference between these three beads. Glass will be heavier than plastic, and crystal will be heavier than glass. There are other differences between them as well.
Glass and crystal are much more durable than plastic. They wear better, and do not break as easily. The biggest difference between glass and crystal is cost. Crystal beads or jewelry will cost three times as much as glass beads or jewelry. The glass can be cut in such a way that it resembles crystal, and you still get that look without the high prices. However, if you want the best in handmade jewelry, you will go for crystal pieces.
Which Type is Most Durable?
Obviously, the most durable type of bead will be the metal beads. These beads can withstand a tremendous amount of pressure. They could be run over by a car and still be intact. However, depending on the type of metal, they can be heavy or expensive. Wood beads are also very durable, but are susceptible to cracking if repeatedly gotten wet and dried such as wearing jewelry in the pool or shower.
For many reasons, glass is the preferred bead type. It is durable and inexpensive. It doesn't matter if it gets wet, and glass too can withstand quite a bit of pressure without breaking. With all of the various patterns and cuts in glass beads, they are very versatile and sometimes unique as well.
Deana "Dee" Marshall is a avid follower of high quality one of a kind handmade jewelry and has been following Skippy's Trinket's artistry. To follow Skippy's Trinkets handmade jewelry artistry visit Skippy's Trinket's Blog.
