Where are the beads made?
They are made both in Venice and Murano in Italy. Murano is the famous "glass island" where the glass furnaces were moved in 1297 by mandate of the Doges of Venice and is about 5 minutes by vaporetto (boat) from Venice. Many visitors think of it as just Venice.
What are the beads made of?
They are made of glass which is about 70% silica (sand). The beads start with glass rods which have been made in Murano. There are only a few factories in the world producing canes for bead making. All of our beads are made from the famous Moretti Canes who make filigrana canes, millefiori canes and the solids and translucent colors (now Effetre Industriale).
Why are Venetian Beads more expensive?
Many factors enter into price of an item. One is the cost of labor in the country, another is the desirability and availability of an item. Beads made in Venice are handmade and few can be made in a day compared to the machine made beads of the Czech Republic. There are a limited number of people still working this ancient craft in Venice - so supply is also limited. And we feel, quite honestly, they are much more beautiful a result of the quality of the glass and the workmanship.
Why are the beads different?
Mainly because they are not made by machine and human made products always reflect the slight variances. As with all articles made by hand, the sizes and shapes will vary. It depends on so many variables, they are all within a range, but no two will ever be exactly alike. This is simply not possible with handmade lampworked beads.
What is used in gold foil and silver foil beads?
Small squares of tissue thin gold foil 24kt gold and .925 sterling silver are used. This the same type foil which is used in applying to statues, architecture and other gold decorated items. The bead is started on the mandrel and then quickly this molten small center of the bead is roll over the tissue thin foil. A final coat of clear or translucent glass completes the bead. Because the gold is inside the bead, it will not peel or chip away.
How do you care for the glass beads?
Because the process of making beads is essentially a chemical process, it's best to give the beads a good bath before working with them. This way you will assure that there is no residue left on the beads. This also makes them sparkle and shine. Soap and water work quite well for glass to clean it. No need for stronger solutions.
