Q I know some glass seed beads are color dyed. Besides doing the sunlight, chemical, and detergent experiments I've read about, is there any way to know if a bead is dyed? By manufacturer? By glass type (opaque, color-lined, transparent)? I especially want to bead some breast cancer awareness ribbon pins, but all the pink beads I find look "fishy."

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Lori Williams
Excelsior Springs
Missouri, U.S.

A

Thanks for your question, Lori. On most tubes of seed beads that I have seen, the label says if the beads are dyed. Some beads and colors are worse than others - unfortunately pinks and purples are high on that list. I have sample cards from Toho (above), and for each bead sample they give a number and a little symbol that indicates what will affect the finish of the beads. Galvanized beads are coated, and their finish can rub off over time. Also, any beads with a metallic finish can tarnish or oxidize. Transparent beads that are dyed fade over time when worn often or exposed to water. Lined beads (where the color is applied to the hole of the bead) can also change color or rub off over time.

The best way to combat these problems is to take off any jewelry before showering, doing dishes, washing the dog, etc. But that goes for most jewelry anyway. You can avoid these different finishes when designing, but you’ll be giving up a lot of beautiful colors. My best advice is to handle the finished pieces with care and, if you are selling your designs, tell your customers to do the same. I hope this helps! Also, click here to view our Tips & Techniques article from the December 2006 issue of Bead&Button, which has more descriptions of beads and finishes. If anyone has any more information I may have overlooked, please post a comment. Thanks!

Anna Elizabeth Draeger
Associate Editor
Bead&Button magazine

 

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