Beads are a wonderful addition to almost any project. They can be used in jewelry, in dressmaking, in arts and crafts, and in a dozen other delightful and creative ways. Some particularly delightful beads are crystal beads, because of their beauty and versatility. But you have to be sure that you’re getting real crystal beads, and not simple glass ones. It can be difficult to tell the difference, so here are a few tips to help you out.
A lot of shops will market and sell various glass beads for jewelry, dresses, and other beaded projects, but they vary on how these beads are marketed. Some will simply mark all of their glass beads honestly, as “glass beads.” This is especially true with plain glass beads, which will be clear. These should be inexpensive, and are great for simple projects, especially arts and crafts for the children.
Some beads, however, will be marked as “crystal beads,” but in reality, they’re only pressed glass. This will give them a little bit of a sparkle and shine, but not as much as true crystal. Unless you’re skilled and looking for true crystal, you may not be able to tell that these are fakes just by looking at them, but if they seem way too inexpensive to be true crystal, that’s probably because they are. If you want real crystals, be wary of these alternatives, but if you just want something sparkly that’s still inexpensive, pressed glass will work just fine for you.
The best, of course, are true crystal beads. These will have lead content, so you should avoid giving them to children, who might put them in their mouth or swallow them. The lead, though, is what makes crystal so incredible. It increases the refractive index of the glass; this makes the glass sparkle and shine so beautifully. The lead also makes them heavier and more resilient than simply glass beads. Unfortunately, it also makes them much more expensive, but if you want a really high-quality beaded project, such as a bracelet or necklace, then leaded crystal is the way to go.
Beads are great for so many things. Don’t be caught unawares looking for the real deal, but happily buy inexpensive options if that’s your budget. That’s what they’re there for. Have fun!
