Firstly, we want to make sure that you are completely happy with your bead purchase!

For returns/refunds in the same condition the items were sent: If, for any reason, you are not satisfied with any item purchased, you may return it for a refund. I ask that you please obtain a refund authorisation by email within 10 days of receipt of the item. Refunds do not include shipping costs. I do reserve the right to impose a 10% restocking fee on returns. This is usually not necessary, but will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

The beads are hand-worked on a mandrel. Sometimes, little bits of glass extend onto the mandrel, known as “stringers” This is a natural occurrence. A beader’s helper – a small round file – available through most beading stores will help you rub the edges to prevent them from cutting your thread. Or use a little very fine sandpaper (400), but be sure to keep the bead wet while sanding it, or you will lose the shine.

Like pearls, the edges of the bead are sharp and can eventually cut cotton or silk thread, especially the stretch cords. Wires with plastic coating outside are more sturdy and less likely to be cut. This is probably why the traditional method of stringing beads in Venice is like pearls with individual knots between each bead; that way, if one cuts, you do not lose the entire strand.

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 ensure that there is no residue left on the beads. This also makes them sparkle and shine. Soap and water work quite well for cleaning glass to clean it. No need for stronger solutions.

Small squares of tissue-thin gold foil, 24kt gold and .925 sterling silver are used. The white gold foils are known in Venice as “Platino” and are the same as in jewelry, it is an alloy of gold and other white metals. This is the same type of 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 centre of the bead is rolled over the thin tissue foil. A final coat of clear of molten translucent glass completes the bead. Because the gold is inside the bead, it will not peel or chip away. Beads with the gold exterior simply do not have the final coat of clear glass, and with time and wear, some of the gold or silver will wear off. This is not a defect; it just enhances the overall effect of the bead and is normal.

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. These variations are not imperfections or rejects, simply that they are made by hand.

The difference between imported lampwork beads and beads made by Blob Beads India is quality and attention to detail. Imported lampwork beads from India, China, etc. are inexpensive because they are made with cheap glass, are mass-produced (lack of quality control), and crack/break more readily as they are not kiln annealed. These beads are usually ‘dusty’ – which are the remains of the high-fire clay that coats the mandrel in the bead-making process. When the finished bead is removed from the mandrel, the clay is broken, and the material remains attached to the glass inside the hole of the bead. This is a ceramic dust and should not be inhaled. Blob Beads India are made with high-quality Italian (Effetre) glass, are all kiln annealed, hand reamed under water to remove any remnant harmful clay dust, and are made with precision and care.

SHIPPING RATE TABLE
Listed below are your options for shipping methods, estimated delivery times and costs:

IMPORTANT – International orders weighing over 5 kilograms (11 pounds) will be charged the actual shipping charges. The customer will be contacted for approval of shipping charges prior to shipment.

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We do not have a printed catalogue. We receive beads weekly, and they are added to the web as quickly as possible. We also sell out of beads weekly and remove them from the web. While we know that everyone enjoys a catalogue to sit and look at the beads, it is impossible for us to keep one current due to the overwhelming popularity of the beads. For more information, contact us.