Buying Beads And Crystals: The Ultimate Guide

Buying Beads And Crystals: The Ultimate Guide

Navigating the world of crystals and beads can be intimidating, especially if you are just starting out. With a vast assortment of options available, knowing the difference between a Rose Pin and a Rivoli, or Cup chain and Cubic Zirconia can be perplexing. This ultimate guide aims to clarify the terminology and provide insights into different types of crystals and their uses, while helping you avoid common pitfalls. With our guidance, you will quickly become well-versed in cut glass crystals and feel confident in your purchasing decisions!

For further details, please visit Tenroads.

TIP: Keep in mind that specific crystals can have multiple names corresponding to their product category, color, and cut. For instance, you might encounter a ‘flatback non-hotfix crystal’ in the color 'Jet' with a cut named 'Chaton Rose'—indicating a flatback design in Jet black rather than the pink hue of rose. Understanding these distinctions is crucial, which is why reference guides are invaluable!

Flatback Crystals / Rhinestones

One of the most popular types of cut glass crystals is the Flatback Crystal, also referred to as rhinestones. They are ideal for adhering to flat surfaces, with the faceted top catching and refracting light beautifully. More facets generally mean a greater sparkle effect.

When considering the size of crystals you require, note that round crystals are categorized by SS numbers; smaller SS numbers signify smaller crystals. Our website features a size guide converting SS numbers to measurements, ensuring you can match the crystal size to your intended application.

There are two primary types of Flatback Crystals:

• HOTFIX Flat Back Crystals (abbreviated as HF) possess a thin layer of heat-activated glue for application using a heat tool. This method is ideal for fabrics and ensures durability even when subjected to bending.
• NON-HOTFIX Flat Back Crystals (abbreviated as NHF) do not have pre-applied glue, allowing greater versatility depending on the adhesive used.

TIP: If applying flatback crystals to curved surfaces, opt for smaller sizes to ensure a snug fit that won’t lead to gaps.

Beads

Beads come in diverse materials and are defined by the presence of a hole for threading. We focus on cut glass faceted beads with four primary types available on our website: Bicone, Round, Shaped, and Seed Beads. It’s crucial to note that bead hole sizes vary, and you should select the appropriate thread or needle accordingly. Hole sizes can be assessed in the Resources section of our site.

Chatons & Round Stones

Chatons are round crystals with a pointed back, offering a stunning diamond-like appearance. However, their design makes them unsuitable for flat surfaces due to their tendency to tilt. Reinvent your designs with stunning options like fancy stones, rivets, and various settings to enhance your jewelry creations.

Familiarize yourself with our offerings and enrich your crafting journey with this guide on what is glass beading. If you're eager to discover more about solid glass microspheres, feel free to reach out for expert guidance!