Designer jewellery has always been an epitome of style and elegance, with every piece telling a unique story.  From intricate designs to the use of premium materials, designer jewellery has always been the first choice of those who want to make a fashion statement.  One material that has been gaining popularity in recent years is glass - flameworked or lampworked, and fused.  

• Flameworked or lampworked glass, is formed using an open flame (usually oxy-propane) to melt glass and to wind the molten glass onto a mandrel to create beautiful and unique handmade glass beads. Often this requires the artist to make a variety of components to be used in the design before forming the base bead, applying the patterns and finally encasing the bead, without distorting the patterns, should this be required. 
• Fused glass is a process where glass is heated and melted in a kiln to form a single piece, used to create pendants or cabachons for example. This fusing process is also sometimes used to create complex patterns which are later cut into thin slivers and applied to a base bead in the flame

In this blog post, we will explore the world of handmade glass beads and how they are being used to create stunning pieces of designer jewellery.

Designer jewellery has come a long way since its inception, and today, it is not just limited to precious metals and gemstones. Glass is one of the latest materials to make its way into the world of designer jewellery, and it's easy to see why. With the ability to create an array of colours and designs, glass beads have become a popular choice for those looking to add a unique touch to their jewellery collection.

The processes of heating and melting glass, either in the flame or in a kiln, to create a single piece, allows for the creation of unique designs and patterns that can be used to create beautiful and one-of-a-kind beads. The end result is a piece (pendant or bead) that is both strong and durable when correctly kiln annealed, making it the perfect material for jewellery.

Handmade glass jewellery components are created by skilled artisans who take great care in ensuring each item is perfect. The process of working with glass on a miniature scale is a complex one, with each step requiring a high level of precision and attention to detail.  From the selection of glass colours to the final polishing, every step is carefully executed to ensure the bead is of the highest quality.  There are reactions that can occur between the oxides used to create that colours of glass that, uncontrolled, can ‘make or break’ a design, so there is also a degree of science involved in understanding the chemistry of glass.

In designer jewellery, handmade glass elements are used in a variety of ways. They can be strung together to create beautiful necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.  They can also be incorporated into other jewellery designs, such as pendants and brooches.  The possibilities are endless, and the result is always a stunning piece of jewellery.

In conclusion, handmade glass beads have become an essential part of the world of designer jewellery.  With their unique designs and the ability to create an array of colours, they are a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their jewellery collection.  Whether you are looking for a simple and understated piece or a bold and daring statement, handmade glass beads are the perfect choice.  So why wait?  Start exploring the world of designer jewellery today and find your perfect piece.