Swarovski® crystals? The components are regarded as the highest quality machine cut and polished crystal beads in the world.
Swarovski® crystals are perfectly uniform. Since they are machine cut, each crystal is the same. This means that the height, width and slope are consistent. A hand polished imitator bead will not have as uniform a cut. You may also notice different dimensions from bead to bead
AB finish Swarovski® crystals have a uniform surface luster. The "imitations" often have scratches unless stated as seconds. Some of these imperfections, in the "impostors", have to do with the lower quality of the finish.
Lamp work beads? A name that originally came from artisans heating glass on an oil lamp to make beads. In my creations I use handmade lampwork beads by Tania Grey.
Japanese seed beads Toho, Matsuno, Delica? Manufactured in Japan. The TOHO is the finest manufacture of glass beads in Japan and represents the best quality. TOHO means 'Eastern Treasure' in English.
DELICA beads were introduced to the world in April 1982. The Delica beads are of the highest standards in quality and design-A perfect bead!
Silver plate? Thin layer of pure silver over base metal.
Sterling silver? 92.5% silver.
Bali silver? Sterling silver. Handmade in Bali; characterized by surface granulation and fine detail.
Hill Tribes silver? 95%-98% pure silver. Handmade in Thailand; no two pieces are exactly alike.
