Murano Glass Beads? Yes, Please!
Posted by Kevin on April 23 at 12:36 pm
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We’ve recently received the most delicious looking product sample ever — Murano glass beads. If you’ve ever shopped for a glass anything, you’ve surely heard of Murano.
The island of Murano is located just off the coast of Venice. Since the 13th century, some of the most beautiful glass in the world has been produced there. Most of the beads are still manufactured using the lampworking technique, which was invented by a Murano glass master in the 1700s.
As you probably know, Lima Beads has never carried glass beads. We’ve received a ton of samples over the years and we have a big stack of boxes in the corner to prove it. We’ve just never had anything strike our fancy, until earlier this week. The clarity of these Murano glass beads and the way they feel in your hand is truly remarkable. The styles are great too. These aren’t just colored glass beads, each one is like a little work of art. You can tell that they weren’t mass produced on some huge machine — someone put some TLC into these beads and it shows.
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What do you think? Have you used Murano glass beads? Should we carry them? What styles and/or colors would you like to see? Share photos if you like…
To update you on the status of the other product additions: sterling is on the way! We’ll be starting with the basics (ear wires, head pins, clasps, wire, etc.) We’re also going to carry these items in gold-filled! Shortly after we add these items, we’ll be adding a full selection of chain. It’s going to be a very busy summer. I hope we’re able to secure a new office space soon, because I don’t know where we’re going to put it all…
On Apr 23, 2009 at 1:19 pm #
Bonnie R says:Oh, yes please carry glass beads. I just recently introduced myself to some blown glass beads with the swirls and they are beautiful. I’ve been searching the Web for a reliabile supplier for good glass beads (especial the foil lined and the hand painted) and have only forund a supplier located in India that I liked the prices. The lighter blown beads I expect to use ribbon to string them, but I have also seen where they put hand wrapped wire beads inbetween the blown glass beads. Very excited to see your beads.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 1:21 pm #
Chippy Chick aka Lindys says:Hi Kevin! The Murano glass beads are awesome! I often mix Murano focal beads & pendants with gemstone beads in my designs. They usually produce a striking contrast & an extra bit of sparkle to the piece! (I’ll have to send a photo of some designs!) It’s always good to branch out to new products! Good luck!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 1:36 pm #
Dizzy Chick Lori Z says:I’ve used some glass, though I prefer gemstones. I tend to like the darker colors, and love the purple/gold/amber round and the teal round you show in the photos. I also like the medallion pendant. I have a couple of photos of some pieces done with glass.
And a big YEAY!!! for silver & GF!!!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 1:53 pm #
Luv2bead - Little Chick says:Sterling, gold-filled, & glass sounds GREAT!!! (ps: and a Gallery of Designs)
On Apr 23, 2009 at 1:54 pm #
rfg says:Murano glass has become a popular trend, especially in large focal pendants. They are very artisian and are very diverse in design style. Go for it! Also thanks for the Vintaj..and how about some sterling silver??
On Apr 23, 2009 at 2:11 pm #
Melissa S says:Eh… I don’t like using glass. But that’s just me.
I LOVE stones and metals. With lots of crystals. B/c I needs the shiny!!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 2:23 pm #
Terri S says:A big YES to carrying glass beads and the murano glass is tops! Would also appreciate the sterling selection. Thanks so much.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 2:30 pm #
BadCat says:I’ve never used Murano glass, but would be interested in seeing what yo have to offer. I typically use lampwork.
I am totally psyched about the sterling silver. I can’t wait to see what you get.
apparently I still have easter eggs on the brain, because everytime I log on, I think about the darn things and feel the need to hunt them down.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 2:48 pm #
Neoprene Queen says:Yes, yes, yes on the Murano glass. It’s beautiful to behold and makes a great addition to a special creation!!! Love the blues and aquas..
On Apr 23, 2009 at 2:58 pm #
Fashion Chick aka SC says:I am so EXCITED about the sterling!! I really need to sell some things so that I can get it right away because I have a feeling that it’s going to so quickly!! Lima’s is the best! Thank you.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 3:01 pm #
JacquiO says:YES, please!!!!!!!!! Soon!!!!!!!!!!!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 3:19 pm #
Kattalyne says:Murano glass beads are AWESOME! That would be a great addtion to the site. I’m also excited about the coming of sterling! Yippee all around.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 3:32 pm #
MaryJo K says:I’m glad you are adding the jewelry-making findings to your inventory. Yes, yes, yes…please add those glass beads. I want those yellow ones right now. So, do it NOW!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 3:54 pm #
M mccallister mrs chick says:yeah!!!!!!! findings! i am so excited.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 6:20 pm #
Jeanne Q says:Love the Murano glass beads and am excited about the sterling and gold-filled pieces too.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 6:24 pm #
Cuban Queen Crazy Chick says:OMG YES!!!! I LOVE using glass beads, especially the ones with foil and I was JUST thinking a few days ago about how it would be nice if you guys carried glass beads but decided not to mention it…yet another reason to love you guys!!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 6:40 pm #
Debbi aka Sparkle Chick says:I bought 3 Venetian foil beads last year to use in a project…it was the very first necklace and earrings I sold at a home party! Murano glass and foil lined glass are gorgeous and would be a welcome addition to an already amazing site…and the sterling silver…be still my heart!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 6:50 pm #
J Yee smart chick says:hey L.B. folks,
YES to murano glass, I’ve always loved the gorgeousness of lampwork especially such famous Murano lampwork, oooohhh… ditto, you guys sure know how to bring in more products that will have us saying oooohhh…. looking forward to sterling silver too, one of my fav metals next to copper and brass…
On Apr 23, 2009 at 7:38 pm #
S Renick says:I would be thrilled to be able to purchase Murano beads from you! Can’t wait to be able to get my silver needs from Lima also. Soon, I hope you’ll be my one stop shopping experience. You’re my favorite shop, so it would make my life happier and easier. Thanks!
Sharon
On Apr 23, 2009 at 8:14 pm #
Anita QoG Funny Chick says:Sounds great to me too!!! It would be wonderful to find everything I need in my “personal” jewelry making here!!!!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 8:14 pm #
Rosemary M says:Murano Glass beads are exquiste additions to any handcrafted jewelry piece. Please offer them to your customers. Thank-you!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 8:33 pm #
Pam M says:Yep, to the Murano, hey and how about a contest to win all your sample glass beads, sitting in the corner (poor glass beadies, they want to be made into something, they’re so sad
, set them free !)
On Apr 23, 2009 at 8:44 pm #
Bonnie R says:A Free the beads contest?
On Apr 23, 2009 at 9:48 pm #
Tammy D says:Yes I too think that you should carry the Murano glass beads. I think they would make a great additive to a necklace. plus I am with Pam M. I think you should do a contest for all the glass beads, they should be made into something.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 9:48 pm #
Shannon aka Silly Chick says:Pam,
I agree! Time to Liberate the inhabitants of the Island of Misfit Beads!!!! What better way than to have them adopted out to good homes!!! Terrific idea!!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 9:50 pm #
Cotopaxi Chickie Sue says:Murano would be a great addition to the cubic zirconia. The findings are a must – soon! Can’t wait for the chain either – I know you’ll find some great chain styles.
I love the idea of a contest for all your sample beads. Your contests are addictive!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 10:04 pm #
B Garrison says:I have been collecting Murano Glass for some time, but have very few beads. Would love to have some. Also looking forward to the sterling and chains.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 10:09 pm #
Marcee C says:Great opportunity! Carrying Murano glass would be great-IF-it is genuine Venetian/Murano glass. I specialize in jewelry design using genuine Venetian glass and have spent years learning the product and all its differences. A lot of Murano “style” glass is floating on the market at much cheaper prices. The clue in the description is when the word ’style’ is used. Real Venetian/Murano glass is expensive for a reason-the quality is vastly different. The Far East markets have become experts at copying this glass style but it doesn’t compare in patterns, styles, colors, techniques and quality. Here are some examples using authentic Venetian glass. Enjoy!!!
On Apr 23, 2009 at 10:56 pm #
Elizabeth B says:I love Murano glass! They would make a great addition to your inventory.
On Apr 23, 2009 at 10:59 pm #
Chicky D aka Debra says:YES, YES, YES! I LOVE Murano glass beads! Yes to silver and chain, too! I’m a silver-lovin’ gal!
On Apr 24, 2009 at 12:05 am #
Happy Grannie says:Until a few years ago, I scorned anything “man-made”, including all glass beads. But now, having seen the error of my ways, I love good glass beads — especially Murano glass, despite the cost. They can be mixed very effectively with semi-precious stones, pearls, whatever. All that’s needed is imagination. As for colours… it depends on what you want to make. Tastes differ.
Ooh, yes, silver! It’s my favourite metal. I can’t wait to see what you get. Hurray for Lima Beads!
On Apr 24, 2009 at 2:21 am #
Mama Yogi says:Great idea on adding glass to your collection. Keep it tasteful like the Murano and I’m all for it. Visited Venice a few years back. It was simply fantastic to see the Murano glass. Sterling silver is also a great addition. Will save me looking for it on other sites. Just got my free beads. Thanks. the pendant is fantastic. M.
On Apr 24, 2009 at 2:29 am #
Lynn Eileen Chicky LE says:I would love for you to start carrying Murano glass beads — they are simply beautiful! The ones I’ve worked with have been very popular. I like the samples, especially the second grouping of five. I’m thrilled you are finally planning to carry silver and GF findings!!! Chain, too, will be great. As the others have stated: one-stop-shopping is the best, especially when it’s at LIMA BEADS!!!
On Apr 24, 2009 at 7:51 am #
Luv2bead - Little Chick says:I’d love to adopt your “sample” beads
Ooooh, listen…do I hear a new contest coming up???!
On Apr 24, 2009 at 8:57 am #
Alice P says:I’ve never tried the Murano Glass (don’t really like the foil look) and always buy my glass beads from artists rather than mass-made.
If these are truly Murano Glass, I would be willing to give it a shot. I am wary of lesser quality glass and have seen many that just don’t hold up to wear.
I would be willing to go to Italy to check them out personally for you–at your expense of course
Can’t wait to see the sterling! My suggestion for earwires is 20gauge so the aren’t flimsy.
Yep, looks like you’re gonna need more space!
Alice
On Apr 24, 2009 at 9:47 am #
Kevin says:Marcee C-
Totally agree. The samples we’ve received are direct from Murano. Most of the samples we have from years past that we decided not to carry are cheaper replications, which really isn’t our style.
Great pieces by the way.
On Apr 24, 2009 at 1:53 pm #
Mirjam E says:I’d be interested in buying Murano glass beads. However, as these do come with a price tag, I would mainly look for pendants and focal beads rather than stringing an entire necklace with them. Maybe something to consider when you start up a line. I love the combination of the cool colors with the gold, really pretty.
About the findings: I would actually really like it if you would sell (more) findings in pewter and brass – that would match nicely with the Vintaj brass and those wonderful Green Girl beads.
Good luck on making your decision on the glass beads!
On Apr 24, 2009 at 2:54 pm #
RubberT aka Plucky Chick says:I just bead for a casual hobby, though you would know it based on my LB orders over the last month! Tee hee! I like gemstones and sterling silver. Sturdy stuff. I know nothing about glass beads, I just hear the word “glass” and think breakable. How sturdy are they? any kind of special care needed?
On Apr 24, 2009 at 2:55 pm #
RubberT aka Plucky Chick says:i mean “not know it”
On Apr 24, 2009 at 3:15 pm #
W Howard says:Bring on the glass!! Murano is very nice and I would love to buy it. along with some other stuff… Millefiori is especially cool!!! ~:-)
On Apr 24, 2009 at 3:19 pm #
Luv2bead - Little Chick says:Rubbertomato-The glass I’ve purchased before has been sturdy, but of course you wouldn’t want to throw them on the floor! lol. But the glass beads aren’t really like any glass vases or other glass things that you have in your house.
On Apr 24, 2009 at 3:28 pm #
RubberT aka Plucky Chick says:Thanks. So I can’t hit it with a hammer? Can’t hit gemstones with a hammer either!!
On Apr 24, 2009 at 4:23 pm #
Luv2bead - Little Chick says:Of course not!!! lol. Well, actually if you want zillions of tiny glass pieces on your floor (or desk) you can!
On Apr 24, 2009 at 6:15 pm #
Patricia F says:Have purchased Murano glass on my two recent trips to Italy and LOVE it. But it is expensive and I like the uniqueness of each bead and wonder how it can be marketed without being “mass distributed”. Think it would be fun to offer a small group of compatible items like your samples, maybe 2 or 3 beads with a focal piece…promoted by color or shape but each selection different. Think how mnuch fun you would have putting them together.
On Apr 24, 2009 at 10:10 pm #
Victoria M says:I’m glad to hear you’re expanding your selection to include nice glass pieces and sterling. I love how easy your site is to use and the wide selection of stone beads,and adding glass will make it a one-stop shop!
On Apr 25, 2009 at 5:08 am #
Gloria -Aussie chick says:Yes please, I love em all
On Apr 25, 2009 at 11:36 am #
Classy Chick JbyJill says:I am the most excited about the silver!! And oh yes, chain!!!! I love chain…. Will there be gunmetal, brass, copper too????
On Apr 25, 2009 at 3:30 pm #
RubberT aka Plucky Chick says:Not that I am anxious or anything, but WHEN do you think you will have the silver? I have a stash right now, but if I use it up,I will need a new SUPPLY.
On Apr 25, 2009 at 6:45 pm #
Kitty Chicky Cat says:The glass looks cool but I can’t wait for the sterling silver!!!! Please sell super soft round 24 to 18g by the ounce!! That half-hard stuff is just too hard to work with!!
On Apr 26, 2009 at 6:42 pm #
Happy Chick aka Harriet says:Looking forward to the silver, but not sure I would order glass.
On Apr 26, 2009 at 8:17 pm #
Bikerdiva says:They look absolutely DELICIOUS! Please carry them!!!
On Apr 27, 2009 at 1:17 am #
Kitty Chicky Cat says:I was wondering, are you going to be getting any of your beautiful white freshwater pearls back in stock soon?
On Apr 28, 2009 at 12:57 pm #
K Hester says:I’m lukewarm on the glass. But chain is hot! I can’t wait for the sterling, gold-filled, and most of all chain.
On Apr 30, 2009 at 6:31 am #
Carole Haywood says:Hi Kevin
I would be very interested in Murano glass beads especially if they are going to be the same quality as the semi-precious i get from you. Keep up the good work
Carole
On Apr 30, 2009 at 6:39 am #
Carole Haywood says:I forgot to say that I use Murano glass beads and pendants a lot as I find that it is very popular with my customers I have attached a photo of one of my necklaces to show what type of beads I would be interested in and hopefully you will be able to provide in the future. I also use a lot of sterling silver tubes to make my own chains will you be getting some of this as well. Make it a one stop shop!!!!
On May 04, 2009 at 1:57 am #
Candy aka Texas Chick says:They’re BEAUTIFUL! Please carry them!
On May 16, 2009 at 3:51 pm #
Bev aka Lyric Chick says:Yes,Yes, Y-E-S to glass!!
And how ’bout silver beads, findings, & chains, too?
On May 23, 2009 at 2:56 pm #
C semper says:Please hurry up and offer your
glass beads, and silver components,
the more choice us beaders have, the
better off we all are!
On Jun 04, 2009 at 5:54 pm #
Malvika K says:The murano glass beads you’ve shown here are AMAZING! if this is the kind of stuff you are planning to add…i would say YEEESSSSSS!!! But please keep your prices as competetive as always so i can enjoy creating with these beads freely!
Thanks. Look forward to the beads!
On Jun 12, 2009 at 9:43 pm #
Cynthia P says:I want some!!! I’ve worked with them before. Great possibilities, even with cetain stones, metal, and crystals.