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Do you make lampwork beads or jewelry? TOP
The answer is both! Right now most of my jewelry is made with fabulous lampwork from other, more *well known* artists. I plan to incoporate more of my own lampwork into my designs as I progress. I was a jewelry designer first and still love to purchase beads from my fellow artisans. What types of findings are used in your jewelry? TOP
Only the best! Any silver metal you see in my jewelry is sterling silver or what is called fine silver...this includes small spacers beads, crimps, etc. Often the silver accent beads I use are handmade beads from Thailand and Bali. Crystals used are always Swarovski which is known for it's outstanding quality. Do you take custom orders for jewelry? TOP
Absolutely!! I'd love to create something just for you based on what your unique vision. Just get in touch with me via the Contact button found on the home page and we can discuss your project and pricing information. What are "Lampwork" beads? TOP
Lampwork beads are handmade glass beads. They are made using a centuries-old process called lampworking - a term which refers to the oil lamps once used to melt the glass. Modern beadmakers use a variety of torches, tools and glass to produce individual glass beads which may contain remarkable detail and artistry.
Basically, glass in the form of a rod is melted in the flame of a torch. As it's melting, the glass is wound around a specially-coated steel mandrel. This bead can then be shaped either by hand or with a press and can then be decorated or embellished using a variety of techniques. Once finished, the bead is placed in a kiln for slow cooling or "annealing" which helps reduce any stress to the glass and ensures the longevity of the bead. (ie. makes it stronger - keeps it from breaking/cracking.)
Once the bead has gone through the annealing process and has cooled, it is then ready to be removed from the mandrel and thoroughly cleaned and dried. Voila! It's now ready to become part of your jewelry designs! |
