Brass & Steel Beads

Q: I acquired some vintage or antique steel and brass beads (slightly faceted,14s?). I haven't see anything like them, even at good-sized bead fairs? I have only a small stash. I'd like to know what they are worth or their replacement value. Any ideas?

A: It sounds like you have landed some french steel cut beads. They are rare, usually found in old purses. The French steel cuts have a huge hole like that of a delica bead. I have found mine at antique stores. I just bought some that answer (more or less) to your description; they were US$8 for a two-inch hank (12 strands of +/- 4 inches each), which may or may not be useful for figuring out the value; I was sick of looking for them and figured they were a bargain at any price.