Question 1

What is an Ojime bead?

Accepted Answer

An ojime bead is a handcrafted decorative bead that is used in carrying cases. These beads are carved into specific shapes or feature images. They originated in Japan, and ojime in Japanese means “cord fastener.” The beads are usually 1 inch or less in diameter.

Question 2

What is a beaded cuff?

Accepted Answer

A beaded cuff is a usually rigid bracelet made out of beads. These cuffs are mostly hand-made using beads that are either stitched, woven, or artistically glued on different materials to make the bracelet. A range of cuffs from different periods featuring unique designs and ornamentation is available on 1stDibs.

Question 3

Can a beaded dress be taken in?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a beaded dress can be taken in. However, the process is generally more time-consuming because individual beads need to be removed during the alteration process. As a result, you can typically expect to pay a professional seamstress or tailor more for altering beaded dresses. On 1stDibs, find a variety of beaded dresses from some of the world’s top boutiques.

Question 4

What is a Samoan bead necklace?

Accepted Answer

A Samoan bead necklace is a type of jewelry produced by the Indigenous people of Samoa, an island nation located in the Pacific Ocean. Also called ula, the necklace features natural materials like leaves, flowers, seeds, fruits, shells and whale's teeth. Visitors arriving in Samoa are often presented with ula necklaces as a sign of welcome. Explore a variety of bead necklaces on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What era are beaded purses from?

Accepted Answer

Beaded purses are from a number of eras. However, they first came into popularity during the late Victorian era at the end of the 19th century. Flappers of the 1920s also frequently carried beaded handbags. Shop a collection of antique and vintage beaded bags on 1stDibs.

Question 6

Are dzi beads natural?

Accepted Answer

Yes, dzi beads come from natural materials. Often, artisans produce them out of agate and other types of stone. However, some modern replicas may feature resin construction. You'll find a range of dzi beads from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is the meaning of coral beads?

Accepted Answer

Coral has several meanings and properties. Many consider coral to be the stone of peace, harmony and transformation and that it can help reduce stress and fear. Coral is also sought for its deep red to soft pink hue. Shop a selection of coral bead jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What do the beads on a rosary mean?

Accepted Answer

The beads on a rosary count one's prayers and indicate which prayer to say. Rosary beads allow one to clear one's mind and fully meditate on the prayer.

Question 9

What do amber bead necklaces do?

Accepted Answer

Amber bead necklaces are believed to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Amber is a fossilized tree resin that contains succinic acid. Many believe that when amber is heated against the body, it releases the acid onto the skin where it is absorbed, providing a boost to the body’s immune system. Find an assortment of amber bead necklaces on 1stDibs.

Question 10

What do beads symbolize in Africa?

Accepted Answer

In Africa, beads represent a number of things. Beaded waist jewelry worn by women in West Africa symbolize sensuality, fertility, femininity, wealth and spiritual health. Some African tribes associate different bead colors with levels of social standing or power. Shop a selection of bead jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 11

What do coral beads mean?

Accepted Answer

What coral beads mean is largely a matter of personal interpretation. In West Africa, people tend to associate coral beads with royalty and power. Coral beads first arrived in Benin, Africa, during the 16th century when the Portuguese traded them for local handicrafts. You'll find a selection of coral bead jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 12

What is a beaded shoe called?

Accepted Answer

Beaded shoes are called Peranakan. Peranakan beaded slippers, also known as Kasut Manik, which literally means "beaded shoes," are a form of shoe that originated in Malaya in the early 20th century. On 1stDibs, shop designer shoes from top fashion brands today.

Question 13

Where do dzi beads come from?

Accepted Answer

Made from dzi agate or carnelian, dzi beads can be found in Central Asia, specifically Nepal, Tibet and India. The beads were worn by Tibetan chiefs, who were often cremated with them after death. You’ll find a variety of dzi bead products from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 14

When were beaded bags popular?

Accepted Answer

Beaded bags became very popular in the late 1800s, first in France where the fashion of the day was established. As women’s clothing became more form-fitting, they lost pockets which necessitated carrying a handbag. Small beaded bags were the perfect accessory and they allowed a woman to show off her beading skills. Find a collection of vintage and modern beaded bags on 1stDibs.

Question 15

How do I identify an antique bead?

Accepted Answer

Identifying an antique bead is a careful art. First inspect the bead for any seams that could indicate it was molded in a contemporary fashion. Antique beads tend to have a larger center hole. Inspect the bead for signs of natural age. An expert can help you confirm the approximate age of your bead. Shop a range of antique beads from top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 16

How do I tell if a vase is a Tiffany vase?

Accepted Answer

There are a few ways to initially check if a vase is a Tiffany vase. Check the base of a vase for a mark or initials from the maker. The iridescent quality of Tiffany glass is crafted into the glass, rather than sprayed or painted on, so any marks where the iridescence has rubbed off would indicate that a vase is not an authentic Tiffany piece. To be sure if a vase is a Tiffany vase, it is best to have a professional evaluate it. Shop a range of expertly vetted Tiffany vases on 1stDibs.

Question 17

What is the best thread for seed beads?

Accepted Answer

The best thread for seed beads will depend on the size of the bead. Since seed beads come in many different sizes and shapes, using the right thickness of thread and color can make your project easier and more enjoyable. There are various brands of seed bead threads available and it is a matter of your personal preference as to which one you would like to work with.

Question 18

How can you tell if a beaded purse is an antique?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a beaded purse is an antique, first look at the frame. Antiques will usually have die-stamped frames, so you should be able to see the pattern on both sides of the metal. The frame is typically cast with newer bags, resulting in the pattern only being on one side. Next, examine the clasps. If your bag is antique, you should be able to detect a gap or seam where the maker soldered on the clasp, while a newer reproduction will frequently have a one-piece clasp and frame with no seams. Finally, look at the interior lining. Antique purses often have a ribbon sewn onto the seam where the lining meets the frame, but this detail will usually not be present on a reproduction. If you have doubts about your bag's age, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of beaded bags.

Question 19

What are Native American beads called?

Accepted Answer

It depends on which region the beads were made since they were created out of available materials found in the land around them. In the Eastern Woodlands, white and purple marine shell beads were called “wampum”. You can shop a collection of Native American beadwork from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

Question 20

Why do guys wear bead necklaces?

Accepted Answer

Why guys wear bead necklaces varies. Bead necklaces may represent a person's cultural heritage, as many artisans from Africa and North American Indigenous tribes produce intricate handmade bead necklaces. In addition, bead necklaces have become associated with certain fashion styles, including surfer and boho. Men may also wear bead necklaces because they like their appearance. Find a large selection of bead necklaces on 1stDibs.

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