Article by Umesh Yadav
IntroductionA glass bead by a very basic definition means a small piece of glass with a hole through it, that can be put on a string with other similar or dissimilar beads and worn as an adornment, etc. Since glass beads are the most ancient and universal art form, they are considered anthropologically very significant. According to some archaeological piece of evidence, the history of glass beads dates back to the Roman reign. At the same time, some other studies reveal the use of sophisticated methods of making these beads in the Mesopotamia and Caucasus region (Russia), as early as 2340-2180 B.C. Besides the Roman and Mesopotamian culture, the history of these beads is also associated with the Mediterranean, Egyptian, and Venice cultures.
The contemporary glass beads are much advanced and intricately designed than the ancient ones. They are available in a multitude of designs, shapes, sizes and colors. The small beads having elaborate designs are also sometimes called seed beads. Nowadays the beads made of glass are used in numerous jewelry items.
Elementary Uses of Glass BeadsGlass beads are used in primarily two kinds of applications. They are used for making curtains and are used in ornaments. But, their most prominent usage can be seen in the jewelry items. So let’s discuss both of their uses one by one:
1) Use for Curtains: Curtains made of glass beads are not mere curtains, but an interior decor item. The stones used for the fabrication of these curtains are multicolored, have intricate carvings, enticing finish, and bewitching coating. All these characteristics of these fabulous beads make the curtain a real decoration item. The common types of finishes that are found in these beads are Ceylon (pearl) finish, Greasy or Oily finish, Color Lined finish, Iridescent Finish, Metallic Finish, and many more finishes.
2) Use for Jewelry: The most ancient application area for glass beads was jewelry making only. These beads are made in both factories and cottage industries, for the purpose of jewelry making. They are more intricately and precisely designed than any other bead. These stones are also used for the “collage” technique of jewelry making. The grace of these stones increases many a time, when they are used in contrast with gemstones and metal beads. We can say that the glass beads used for making adornments are most appealing, gleaming and conspicuous in nature.
Common Types of Glass BeadsHowever, there are numerous varieties of glass beads available at present, but it is not feasible to describe each and every one of them here. So we are explaining here the most common types, they are as mentioned below:
1) Venetian: These beads have their origin in Venice, hence the name venetian. They are made by highly skilled Venetian artisans, who have acquired the expertise in this field through tradition. They are not mere beads, but the reflection of the rich Venetian culture.
2) Handmade: Handmade glass beads are the epitome of the artisans’ creativity and ingenuity. There are absolutely no constraints to the designs, shapes, colors, sizes, and varieties in which these fabulous adoration items are crafted. These stones are generally available in a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors & finishes.
3) Chevron: They are one of the oldest kinds of beads. They were manufactured in the 14th century for the very first time. Since then, their popularity have increased many a time. These beads are composed of convoluted layers of multiple colors of glasses in diverse patterns. However, this bead comes in six, four, and five layers, its most popular variety is comprised of seven layers.
4) Silver Foil: They possess a unique sheen, along with numerous brilliant colors. These beads are made by using a.925 sterling silver foil, which is submerged beneath the translucent colors of glass. They are made with great precision by skilled craftsmen. Their few common types include stamped silver foil, dotted silver foil, and two tone silver foil beads.
5) Alphabet: As the name suggests, these beads are engraved with various alphabets. They are endowed with a smooth finish and dyed in various vibrant colors like blue, red, yellow, silver, golden, cream, and pink. Their common shapes are that of heart, button, square, round, and triangle. The materials commonly used for making them include glass, sterling silver, wood, acrylic, plastic, etc.
ConclusionAbove, we have discussed the meaning, prominent uses, and common types of the glass beads. The significance of these stones is quite apparent from this discussion. We can say that the use of beads is almost indispensable for the fabrication of any dazzling jewelry item. We have already discussed various aspects related to the glass beads. But, as there is no end to knowledge, you might be seeking some detailed information on the above-mentioned and numerous other types of stones.
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About the Author
Umesh is a person who love to writing. He has written many articles on various topics. Some of these articles are available on ezine.
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