GetCrafty Craft Facts

Q: I am looking for a good mail-order source for sterling silver findings and semi-precious stone beads. The local bead shop charges a fortune for these.

A: If you want to use only one source for everything, 'Fire Mountain' is a good place to start. If price is a big consideration, try some comparison shopping. I like 'South Pacific'(www.beading.com) for both stone and 'SS', and 'Texas Beads' (www.tx-beads.com) for stones. These two companies have consistent good quality (maybe not GREAT quality) product. I also like 'Gem-o-Rama' for plain, round 'SS' beads, and some findings - earwires and clasps, mostly. 'GemORama' is great for sterling silver ear wires and gemstone bead strands. Be sure to ask about their specials 1-800-878-1903, ask for Linda. I'm associated with a company that handles a broad range of sterling beads, clasps, and findings - Elvee/Rosenberg in New York. Some of the items can be seen at http://www.jewelrythings.com/elvee.htm and they also have a flyer available showing the entire program. Let me know if you'd like one sent to you.