What Are Beads?

Beads, also known as seed beads, are small perforated elements for decorating various fabrics and objects. They are most commonly made from natural stones, crystals, metal, wood, textile, plastic, various types of clay or glass.

Imitations of semi-precious stone elements are made from materials that can mimic the appearance of natural stone.

Types

 Beads are divided into several overlapping categories based on different criteria – the materials they are made of; the manufacturing process used, their shape, and the patterns on their surface:

1. Material

A wide variety of materials are used in the production of beads:

• Clay
• Natural stones
• Crystals
• Metal
• Wood
• Textile
• Plastic
• Metal
• Glass
• Soft polymer

2. Shape

Beads can be round, square, rhomboid, elongated, tubular, and seed-like in shape.

3. Origin

Based on their origin, beads are primarily African, Austrian crystal, Czech glass beads, and antique.

The production of Czech crystal started in the 13th century. It is considered the most popular and quality crystal in the world.

It is used to make dinnerware, vases, chandeliers, etc. That is why the Czech Republic is renowned for having the finest and highest quality crystal in the world.

The country also produces Czech glass beads in different shapes and colors. They are distinguished by their fine craftsmanship, brilliance, and style, and carry the spirit of the Renaissance.

4. Size

Their size varies from smaller than a millimeter to over 1 cm. The different sizes find a variety of applications.

5. Surface treatment

After beads are made, their surface is treated. The different types of coatings give the elements a specific look. For example, the Aurora Borealis surface coating spreads light in a spectrum. Other surface coatings include stained glass, dorado, moonlight, satin, star shine, and heliotrope.

Imitations

Imitation beads are made to look like more expensive materials such as gems. These include faux pearls, simulated rocks, faux semi-precious stones, minerals, noble metals, and ivory. For example, the kernels of the Tagua palm from South America are used as a substitute for ivory, because the trade in ivory is restricted worldwide.

Application and Purpose

1. For jewelry making

Beads are most commonly used in jewelry production. They can be used to create unique models of earrings, necklaces, bracelets, neckbands, brooches. They are used to decorate tiaras, hair clips and hair ties. They can be embroidered on bags, wallets, pouches, clutches.

It is common to make bracelets from semi-precious stone elements. In addition to being beautiful, natural stones and minerals carry positive energy. Depending on their type, they attract health, luck, money, love, success, prosperity, and happiness. Each stone corresponds to a zodiac sign. Manufacturers of bracelets take into account these characteristics of natural stone beads. Not only the origin of the stones and minerals but also their color and shape carry symbolism. This makes these jewels popular among many people.

2. For embroidery

Beads are one of the most common materials used for embroidery on clothes. Thanks to their holes, beads can be easily sewn onto textiles. For this purpose, you need a very small needle and thin, but strong thread.

Bead embroideries are extremely beautiful, thanks to the beads’ shine and the abundance of colors you can combine.

3. In religion

In some religions, beads are used in the making of worry beads. They count the recited prayers, made bows, and other religious rituals. Such are the rosaries for Roman Catholics, misbaha for Muslims, japa mala - Buddhist prayer beads, etc.

4. Cultural and social significance

In different societies, beads have cultural and social significance. They are present in rituals at births, weddings, funerals, religious practices including initiations and mysteries.

5. For making talismans

As already mentioned, depending on the material they are made of, beads carry certain energy and symbolism. Therefore, they are also used in the production of talismans and jewelry with messages for a loved one.

Talismans protect us from bad thoughts, reproaches, and negativity.

6. For games

There are many games that can be played with beads. Games were played with some of the first beads ever used on Earth.

7. As currency

In some countries, such as Ghana, Agri beads are used as currency.

8. Managing stress and relaxing

Working with beads is an ideal way to relieve stress and relax. It has been proven that creative activities engaging the mind and hands are an excellent way to achieve tranquility and relaxation.

Besides all the listed applications, they are also a good way to develop your imagination and dexterity, precision, inventiveness, and teach us diligence and attention to detail.

Children can also work with beads, but only after a certain age, as beads are quite small and can be swallowed.

Therefore, before buying bead crafts, make sure to check the package instructions for the recommended age and see if they are suitable for your child.

Bead Mosaic Forms

Childrens can use beads to make mosaics.

This hobby is better known as Pixel Art. It is named this way because the small round beads resemble pixels. Pixel Art – art made of pixels (small dots or squares)

The mosaics come in various shapes featuring animals, insects, birds, and objects that attract children’s attention. Their surface has numerous pegs onto which small, round beads are placed in specific colors. There are also rectangular mosaics where you can choose which figure to arrange.

Once placed on the form, they are ironed. This way, they are bonded together to form a sturdy plastic figure. With it, you can make a keychain, a pendant for a child’s bag, or a toy for someone.

Why Choose EM ART?

We offer the richest assortment of hobby materials. Here you will find beads, natural stones, hobby and craft materials, art materials, decoration articles, jewelry accessories and stringing, all necessary craft tools, as well as gift packaging.

Prices

We offer high quality materials for art enthusiasts at low prices.

We often have discounts that every client can benefit from.

The prices vary depending on the type of item, quantity, and size of the elements.

Delivery

When you’ve chosen your products, you need to go to your virtual cart, enter your personal details – three names, contact phone number, and the address where you want the package delivered.

Choosing EM ART means you are one step closer to realizing your artistic dreams!