Author: Travis

Hey there, crystal enthusiasts! Travis here, your trusty guide to all things sparkly and spectacular. If you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head over the term “crystals” and what it really means in the world of crafting and spirituality, you’re not alone. The word “crystals” can encompass a wide range of materials, from natural gemstones to glass beads and everything in between. In this guide, we’re diving deep into the world of crystals to clear up the confusion once and for all. So grab your magnifying glass and sense of adventure – let’s embark on a crystal-clear journey together!

What Are Crystals?

At its most basic definition, a crystal is a solid material whose atoms are arranged in a highly ordered, repeating pattern extending in all three spatial dimensions. This precise arrangement gives crystals their unique properties, including clarity, hardness, and ability to refract light.

Are Crystals Natural?

Yes, many crystals occur naturally in the Earth’s crust through geological processes such as cooling and solidification of molten rock or the evaporation of mineral-rich solutions. You’ll find natural crystals in various forms, including tumbled gemstones, crystal points, clusters, and more. We stock an amazing array of beads carved from these crystal pieces.

Crystals vs Gemstones: What’s the Difference?

We tend to use the words “crystals” and “gemstones” interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. Crystals technically refers to a solid material with a highly ordered atomic structure for example, while gemstones specifically means minerals or rocks.

In the world of jewellery making and crafts, this can cause some confusion when people looking for rhinestones, Preciosa bicones, amethyst beads, tumbled stones, citrine points, chandelier components, faceted glass beads, and even pointy diamantes. When someone asks “where are your crystals” we don’t have enough arms between us to point in all the directions at once.

We tend to refer to the natural stuff (like Lapis beads, tumbled agate, and quartz wands) as gemstones, and Swarovski, glass faceted beads and diamantes as crystals, just to lessen the confusion.

The Many Faces of Crystals:

Crystals come in a dazzling array of forms, each with their own unique allure and energy. Whether you’re drawn to the smooth, comforting feel of tumbled gemstones, the sharp precision of crystal points, or the captivating beauty of crystal clusters, there’s a crystal for every purpose and preference. These diverse formations not only reflect the natural wonders of the Earth but also serve as powerful tools for healing, manifestation, and spiritual growth. Let’s explore the captivating world of crystals and uncover their hidden depths together!

Tumbled Gemstones: Tumbles are natural gemstones that have been polished in a tumbler to make smooth, rounded shapes. They’re the ones kids, including kidults like me, like to collect.

Crystal Points: These natural beauties are fascinating! You’ll usually see natural citrine, quartz and amethyst gemstone points, although some other gems are cut into points as well. They’re often used by healers for their energy and meditation powers, or as decorative accents.

Crystal Clusters: These formations consist of multiple crystal points growing together, creating intricate and beautiful arrangements that are said to amplify the energy of the crystals.

Gemstone Beads: These are natural or synthetic gemstones that have been drilled and shaped into beads for use in jewellery making and crafting. Some gemstones like Malachite and Larimar are quite expensive in their natural form, so they are often copied. The synthetic versions are much cheaper, but lack the properties and luxurious appeal of the real thing.

Glass Crystal Beads: These are man-made beads crafted from glass but designed to mimic the sparkle and brilliance of natural crystals. They’re popular for adding glamour and shine to jewellery designs.

Swarovski and Preciosa Crystals: These are premium-quality crystal beads manufactured by renowned European brands known for their exceptional clarity, brilliance, and precision-cut facets. They’re prized by jewellery designers and costumers for their unparalleled sparkle and beauty.

Crystal Chandelier Parts: These are specialised crystal components used in the construction of chandeliers and other lighting fixtures. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, adding a touch of elegance to any space.

Exploring Crystal Meanings and Metaphysical Properties:

Many people are attracted to crystals not only for their beauty but also for their reputed metaphysical properties, believed to influence our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Each crystal is said to have its own unique energy and healing properties, making them powerful tools for personal growth and transformation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crystals:

1. Are Crystals Natural or Man-Made?

Crystals can be both natural and man-made. Some are even man-made from natural stones. Natural crystals form through geological processes over millions of years. Man-made crystals are usually created in laboratories using methods like melting and cooling, or they can be grown through chemical synthesis. Many synthetic gemstones utilise other gemstones or minerals in their production process.

2. How Do I Cleanse and Charge My Crystals?

There are several methods for cleansing and charging crystals, including:

• Rinse them under running water.
• Smudge them with sage or palo santo smoke.
• Place them in sunlight or moonlight for a few hours.
• Bury them in the earth for a day or two.
• Use sound vibrations from singing bowls or bells.

3. What Are the Benefits of Using Crystals?

Lots of people believe in the metaphysical powers and properties of crystals. Some of the benefits include:

• Balancing and aligning energy centres (chakras).
• Enhancing meditation and spiritual practices.
• Providing protection from negative energy.
• Promoting emotional healing and well-being.
• Amplifying intentions and manifestation efforts.

4. How Can I Tell if a Crystal Is Genuine?

Some tips for identifying genuine crystals include:

• Researching the properties and characteristics of the specific crystal.
• Examining its colour, clarity, and texture.
• Checking for natural imperfections and inclusions.
• Testing its hardness and density (if possible).
• Purchasing from reputable sellers or sources.

Remember, many online sellers looking to make a quick buck will pass off synthetic stones as the real thing. Some even substitute one for another. For example it’s common for some online sellers to provide agate when a customer orders obsidian. Many people won’t know the difference, and they can make extra money sending a lower cost product. At Beads N Crystals, we have many years of experience selling gemstones, so we know what we’re dealing with. Our reputation and repeat business are the key to our success. We never supply low cost or imitated products as the real thing.

5. Can Crystals Help with Healing and Meditation?

Many people believe that crystals have healing properties and can support meditation efforts. Although scientific evidence is not extensive, many individuals find that working with crystals personally promotes relaxation, relieves stress, and enhances overall well-being based on their own experiences. It’s important to note that crystals should not replace medical treatment, but rather complement holistic practices.

The term “crystals” encompasses a diverse array of materials, each with their own unique characteristics and uses. Whether you’re drawn to the natural beauty of gemstones, the sparkle of glass crystal beads, or the precision-cut brilliance of Swarovski crystals, there’s something pretty magical about incorporating crystals into your life and creative endeavours. So go ahead, explore the fascinating world of crystals and let their beauty and energy inspire you on your journey of self-discovery and creativity.

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out

Hey there, Swifties! Travis here, ready to help you turn those leftover crafting supplies from your Taylor Swift-inspired friendship bracelets into new and exciting creations. Let’s dive into some creative crafting ideas that will put those beads, cords, and threads to good use!

Did you find yourself knee-deep in beads after creating those fabulous friendship bracelets for the Taylor Swift concert? Wondering what to do with the leftover supplies now that the concert buzz is settling down? Fear not! We’ve got you covered with a treasure trove of creative crafting ideas to make the most out of those extra beads. From personalised keychains to boho beaded anklets, there’s no shortage of ways to turn your leftover treasures into new and exciting creations. Let’s dive in and give those beads a second life filled with creativity and charm!

1. Personalised Keychains:

Use your leftover letter beads to spell out initials, names, or meaningful words on beading wire or elastic cords. Add colourful spacer beads for a pop of personality, finish it off with a keychain finding and voila – you’ve got custom keychains to gift to friends or attach to your backpack!

2. Boho Beaded Anklets:

String together leftover spacer beads and colourful discs on elastic cord to create trendy boho-inspired anklets. Mix and match colours and patterns to match your summer wardrobe and add a touch of Swiftie flair to your beach look.

3. Music-Inspired Bookmarks:

Channel your love for Taylor Swift’s iconic songs into handmade bookmarks. String together letter beads to spell out your favorite song lyrics or album titles, and embellish with coordinating spacer beads. Hang them off a bookmark finding and you’re all done! It’s a fun way to keep your place in your favorite reads while paying homage to your favorite artist.

4. Inspirational Quote Bracelets:

Get inspired by Taylor Swift’s empowering lyrics and create bracelets featuring uplifting quotes or messages. Use a mix of letter beads and colourful spacers to spell out words like “Fearless,” “Brave,” or “Kindness.” Wear them as a daily reminder to stay strong and true to yourself.

5. Pet Collar Charms:

Treat your furry friends to some Swiftie style with homemade pet collar charms. Spell out their names or nicknames using leftover letter beads, and add cute spacer beads for extra flair. Attach them to their collars for a touch of personalised bling.

6. Upcycled Hair Accessories:

Give plain hair ties or clips a makeover with leftover beads and cords. Wrap elastic cords or wrapping wire around hair ties and thread on colourful spacer beads for a bohemian-chic vibe. Or glue letter beads onto bobby pins to create custom hair accessories featuring your favorite Swiftie phrases.

7. Donation Station Reminder:

Remember, if you find yourself with more supplies than you can craft with, don’t let them go to waste! Consider donating your leftover beads, cords, and threads to our Crafting Sustainability recycling bin in-store. Your generosity will help support local schools and charities, providing them with much-needed crafting supplies to spark creativity in the community community.

So there you have it, Swifties – a plethora of crafting ideas to keep the creativity flowing long after Tay Tay flies off into the sunset after the final concert in Australia. Let’s turn those leftover supplies into new treasures and spread the love of crafting far and wide! Keep on crafting, and remember, every bead tells a story.

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out

Hey there, bead buddies! Travis here, your crafty companion and resident Website Wizard at Beads N Crystals. Today, we’re delving into the underrated world of jewellery findings – those magical little components that hold our creations together and make them shine! But wait, there’s more! I’ve also sprinkled in some cost-saving hacks to help you stretch your crafting budget further. Let’s dive in!

Lets demystify the term “findings.” In our crafty world of jewellery making, findings are like the unsung heroes – they’re the essential components that bring your creations together. Think of them as the nuts and bolts of your jewellery projects. Findings encompass a wide range of small but crucial pieces, think clasps, jump rings, ear wires, head pins, crimps, and more. They’re what you use to connect different elements of your design, secure closures, and add those finishing touches that make your pieces shine.

So, whether you’re crafting earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or any other type of jewellery, you’ll likely find yourself reaching for findings to complete your masterpiece. They may be small, but they play a big role in ensuring your creations are both beautiful and functional. They’re not only essential, they can be used to add a pop of creativity to your designs too!

The Magic of Jewellery Findings: Unlocking Your Creativity:

First things first, let’s talk about the unsung heroes of jewellery making – findings! From clasps and jump rings to ear wires and crimp beads, these tiny treasures are the backbone of our creations. They not only keep everything in place but also add that finishing touch of elegance. So, let your creativity soar as you explore the endless possibilities of jewellery findings!

Hack #1: Multipurpose Jump Rings – One Ring to Rule Them All:

Say goodbye to cluttered craft drawers! Did you know that jump rings can be manipulated and re-sized? Plus they can double as connectors for multiple strands of beads? Simply manipulate the shape of larger jump rings using your round nose pliers and trim the excess to make a ring a size or two. Bend a jump ring so there are two V shapes pointing in toward each other. Manipulate the ring and the V shapes so that the points almost touch, leaving you with an almost figure-8-shaped wire. This new connector you’ve created can be used to hold a two-strand bracelet together at intervals in your design.

Hack #2: DIY Ear Wires – Turning Ordinary into Extraordinary:

Turn your styles up a notch with homemade ear wires! All you need is some sturdy wire and a pair of round-nose pliers. By crafting your own ear wires, you not only customise the style but also cut down on costs compared to purchasing pre-made ones. Some craft wire in a 20 or 22 gauge and a wire jig will make this process a breeze.

Hack #3: Creative Clasp Alternatives:

Don’t limit yourself to traditional clasps! Get creative with alternative closure options such as toggle clasps, magnetic clasps, or even decorative buttons. These unique closures not only add visual interest to your designs but also offer practicality and ease of use. Make your own clasps using a ring of seed beads and a stick pearl as a toggle, or wrap your own wire s-hooks.

Hack #4: Clasp Upgrade – From Basic to Bling:

Give your designs a touch of luxury without breaking the bank! Transform basic clasps into dazzling closures by embellishing them with small Swarovski crystals or seed beads. It’s a cost-effective way to add a hint of glamour to your creations.

Hack #5: Wire Guardians – The Unsung Heroes of Durability:

Protect your stringing material and prevent wear and tear with wire guardians. These small findings may seem insignificant, but they play a crucial role in extending the lifespan of your jewellery pieces. Plus, they add a professional finish to your designs.

Hack #6: Bulk Buying Bonanza – Saving in Style:

Stock up on your favorite findings by purchasing in bulk! Many of our products have additional quantity discounts, allowing you to save money in the long run. Just make sure to store them properly to prevent tarnish and damage. VIP members and wholesale clients have access to great additional savings on findings too.

Hack #7: Repurpose and Recreate – Finding New Life in Old Findings:

Get creative with your findings by repurposing old or broken jewellery pieces. Salvage clasps, jump rings, and other components to breathe new life into your designs. It’s eco-friendly and budget-friendly – a win-win!

For any crafting pieces you can’t make use of, give them a new life through a range of community groups via our craft recycling bin.

So there you have it, bead addicts – a treasure trove of jewellery findings wisdom paired with some savvy cost-saving hacks. Now go forth and craft with confidence, knowing that you’ve got the skills and smarts to create stunning jewellery pieces without breaking the bank.

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out

Hey, fabulous bead enthusiasts! Travis in the house – your go-to craft maestro and lover of all things sparkly. Guess what’s approaching at warp speed? Yep, you got it—Valentine’s Day! And I’m here to guide you on an epic journey to create the most dazzling, heartwarming gifts imaginable.

1. Dive into the World of Swarovski Hearts:

Brace yourself for a glittering adventure! Our Swarovski crystal heart pendants are a symphony of charm, coming in various shapes and sizes. Whether you fancy a delicate dazzler or a bold centrepiece, our heart collection has your creative cravings covered. There are also Swarovski heart beads and the famous Love bead along with many other gorgeous pendants.

As you know, they’re all out of production and off the market, so for a truly rare and exclusive gift, grab a heart to steal a heart before they’re gone forever! Don’t actually steal though, the boss has cameras and he’s onto it! We don’t want anyone sentenced to love as they say!

2. Mix and Match with Crystal Beads:

Ready to take your creation to the next level? Explore the universe of possibilities by mixing Swarovski crystal hearts with our stunning crystal beads. It’s like curating your own love story in crystal form—each piece complementing the other in perfect harmony.

Rose Quartz is the stone of unconditional love, promoting compassion, tenderness and emotional healing. If the pink is a little wishy-washy for you, turn it up a notch with rich purple amethyst. It’s said to foster deep connections and understanding between partners. To ignite passion, sensuality and commitment, consider red garnet, or to promote feminine energy and intuition, moonstone is your go-to.

3. Sterling Silver Chains – Because Every Heart Deserves a Home:

Now, let’s talk real estate for your sparkly treasures. Our sterling silver chains aren’t just accessories; they’re the VIP suites for your crystals. Choose a chain that speaks to your heart (pun intended) and gives your creation the showcase it deserves. If you’re simply hanging a single heart, the can be no more elegant look than a simple silver chain.

On the other hand, if you’re hooked on gems or other beads, Flex-Rite beading wire is the best option for stringing a necklace. Drop in to our bead shop and we’ll hook you up with the essentials to turn your vision into reality!

4. Gift Boxes, Because Presentation is Everything:

You know what they say – presentation is key! Show off your crafted masterpiece in our elegant gift boxes. It’s not just a box; it’s the grand entrance your creation deserves. Unwrapping it becomes an experience, building anticipation and excitement.

5. Heart Stickers and Sequins – Because More Sparkle, More Love:

What’s a crafting adventure without a playful tough? Sprinkle extra love and sparkle with our heart stickers and sequins. It’s like adding a dash of magic dust to your creation, making it truly enchanting.

6. Crafting Date Night – Because Why Not?:

Turn your crafting session into a romantic date night! Grab some delectable snacks, cue up your favorite tunes, and let the creativity flow. Crafting together not only doubles the fun but also creates cherished memories.

8. Share the Love – Social Media Style:

Spread the joy! Once your creation is complete, flaunt it on social media. Tag us, share your crafting journey, and inspire others to embark on their own beading adventure. It’s like creating a ripple effect of love and creativity.

So, my bead buddies, gear up for a Valentine’s Day crafting escapade filled with love, laughter, and a whole lot of sparkle. Dive into our Swarovski wonderland before it’s gone forever, grab your tools, and let the crafting magic unfold. Because nothing says “I love you” like a handcrafted crystal creation straight from the heart. Happy crafting and may your Valentine’s Day be as radiant as your crystal balls!

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out

Hey there, fellow bead wizards! It’s your crafty conjurer, Travis, at Beads N Crystals. Today, I’m letting you in on some magical secrets to enhance your beading journey. Brace yourselves for 12 ingenious tool hacks that will have you beading with the finesse of a true wizard!

1. Pliers with Extra Grip:

Nylon pliers are great for keeping your wire and metal components scratch-free, but it’s not always practical to buy new tools to complete a single task. Add a touch of cushioning to your pliers by wrapping the jaws with a small piece of rubber, painters tape or foam. It not only provides extra grip but also protects delicate wires and beads from scratches.

2. Needle Sharpness Revival:

When your beading needles start feeling a bit dull, revive their sharpness by gently rubbing them against fine sandpaper. Say goodbye to snagging and hello to smoother beading!

3. Store your Needles for Safety and Simplicity

There are so many different types of needles. Do you find that after a project your needles all migrate to the one place and it’s next to impossible to distinguish which is which? Simple fix: use your empty seed bead tubes to sort and store your needles! Peel off the label and use a Sharpie to write the needle type and size on each tube. A simple rubber band to keep the tubes together, and your needle woes are sorted!

Side note: if you have more empty tubes than needles, don’t throw them out! We offer a tube credit scheme as part of our commitment to Crafting Sustainability!

4. Anti-Slip Pliers Grip:

If you’ve got old tools with split or missing handle grips, but they have a little life left in them, try this!  Wrap the handles with rubber bands or heat-shrink tubing for a comfortable and anti-slip grip. Your hands will thank you during those extended crafting sessions.

5. Colour Code your Tools:

Grab an assortment pack of coloured electrical insulation tapes. You (or someone you know) will probably have something laying around from that time you tried to DIY some home electrical repairs. Highly NOT recommended! Don’t you remember Dumb Ways to Die? Only the best commercial ever made! Anyway, wrap a little tape around the handles of your tools to colour code them. It makes grabbing side cutters while avoiding needle nose pliers much easier! Simple but effective!

6. Secure Thread Burner Caps:

Prevent accidental burns by securing the safety cap of your thread burner or thread zapper with a small binder clip. Safety first, bead second! Well, I originally wrote “bead first, safety second”, but our lawyer suggested rewording it… Buzzkill much?

7. Magnetic Mini Storage Magic:

Attach a small magnet to the inside of your mini storage containers. It becomes a magnetic haven for your needles and tiny metal findings, ensuring they stay put.

Bonus tip: Use a magnet to ensure there are no metal fragments in the wrong places in your beads or tool kits.

8. Measuring Tape Bead Counter

Get a fine-tip Sharpie and a measuring tape. Line up a row of ten 4mm beads and mark it on the measuring tape. Do this for the lengths of the sizes you use most to make counting and estimating beads for a project super easy. Do the same with markings for the lengths of your favoutite bracelet sizes so you’ll always thread the right number of beads every time.

9. DIY Sticky Bead Mat:

Us seed beaders love a good sticky bead mat, don’t we! They keep those little Delica’s and size 15’s in check with their voodoo-grade sticky surface. But what do you do when you awaken at 3am and dive into seed beads like a maniac if there’s no sticky bead mat in sight? Simple, stick a piece of double-sided tape to your desk or bead mat, or mouse pad if you’re really having a bad morning! Say goodbye to runaway beads and hello to hassle-free beading. Even if you can’t keep your eyes open!

10. Candle Wax Thread Conditioner

Thread Heaven is a thing of the past. There are substitutes, like Bees Wax and Thread Magic, but again, at 3am after being awoken from a dream of beading, as if I have a chance of finding my Thread Magic! Simple fix, Nanna’s favourite vintage candle! No! That’s not right! The cheap candle you couldn’t put back at Kmart because it smelled like chocolate crackles! Run your thread across the candle wax to condition and prevent knotting and tangles. It works pretty well, not perfect but definitely not terrible!

11. Easy Needle Threading:

Again, you could buy a needle threader to make threading a breeze, but seriously. I’ve bought a dozen of them and I still can’t find one when I need it! Introducing Dental Floss! It’s flat, slippery, fairly rigid and has a minty aroma! What more could you need? It threads easily through a needle, then form a loop and pull your thread through. It’s not as good as a needle threader, but still much more effective than swearing at the needle!

12. Easy Beading Thread Cutter

Side cutters are great for wire and tiger-tail, but they are no match for the mighty Fireline and NYMO. How can that be? Try it for yourself! Needleworkers threads are treated with Harry Potter’s magic making them invincible to anything other than a sharp thread cutter.

Jump back to step 11, where we just spend endless hours sliding dental floss through various needles to compare how much minty aroma stuck to the needle. The floss box is empty now right? Look at that! A thread cutter, and… it CUTS Fireline! AND NYMO!! “Finite Incantatem!” (waves plastic HP wand I’m not ashamed to have on my craft table.)

There you have it, bead wizards – 12 crafty tool hacks to make your beading game a little more fun. Try them out and watch as your crafting experience transforms into a magical journey of creativity and ease. Happy beading, and may your tools be forever in your favour!

Oh, one last final tip. There isn’t always a hack substitute for every beading and crafting tool. But luckily, you’ve found a really good bead shop with every tool you can imagine. Check them out, they’re all online!

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out