Handmade jewelry increases accessory options, makes for great gifts and allows the fashion-conscious person to really coordinate a whole look. Luckily, beading and jewelry supplies are easy to buy both online and in craft stores.
Beads, especially gemstone beads, purchased individually from bead shops can be expensive. With the expansive supply of beads, beading and jewelry supplies available at less expensive venues it’s smart to do some research first and only purchase gemstone beads from bead shops if they can’t be found elsewhere.
Don’t have the time to troll the internet looking for beads or beading and jewelry supplies? Here is a list of well-regarded online supplies in the handmade jewelry industry:
Fire Mountain Gems and Beads
For the casual handmade jewelry artist, it doesn’t get much better than Fire Mountain. They have a complete supply of beads, beading and jewelry supplies. The more the jewelry maker buys the more of a discount is applied to the order. Fast, cheap ground shipping via USPS that is based upon the price of the order.
Not happy with the quality of the order, ordered too much or the jewelry maker changed their mind? As long as the beads, beading or jewelry supplies are in their original unopened container (usually a plastic bag), Fire Mountain will accept all items for a quick refund – no questions asked. That’s right – no questions asked. Fire Mountain Gems is pretty flexible time-wise on the date of return.
House of Gems Beads and Beading Supplies
The House of Gems specializes in gemstone beads, but they also stock a complete line of beading and other jewelry supplies. They have no minimum purchase amount but customers can get additional discounts up to 20% off their purchase using the House of Gems’ frequent buyer program. They ship free first class mail within USA regardless of amount of the jewelry makers order.
As long as the beads, beading or jewelry supplies are in their original unopened container and returned within 30 days, House of Gems will accept all items for a quick refund – no questions asked.
Rio Grande Beads and Beading Supplies
Rio Grande also has a fine selection of beading products, jewelry supplies and jewelry making tools. Those wishing to purchase beads or beading supplies will have to set up an account to view the online catalog. It’s highly suggested that a paper catalog be ordered. The cost of the catalog will be credited against the first order placed by the handmade jewelry makers.
Rio Grande ships via USPS, UPS and for the heavy items, they use ground freight. They also accept returned beads and jewelry supplies in their original unopened container if returned within 30 days.
eBay Beads and Beading Supplies
It’s always worth a look at eBay to see what type of beads and jewelry supplies are available. Just make sure the same precautions are taken when buying beads and jewelry supplies as would be taken with any eBay purchase.