We are back again this week with more of our ongoing series about Bead Types. This week we are going to take a quick look at ceramic beads.

The use of clay in the creation of beads goes back quite a long way, especially in China, which excelled in the creation of ceramic beads. Today there a many more ceramic beads coming onto the market.

Greek ceramic beads have become very big, especially Mykonos ceramic beads. Greek ceramic beads are available in a huge range of shapes and colours, as well as some amazing metal plated finishes. A lot of these beads are made to mimic stones or metal. They have a fabulous range of ‘washer’ type beads in square, triangle and round shapes. These are quite organic beads with slightly variations in the sizes and shapes.




There are also many more handmade ceramic beads, pendants and cabochons available in a range of finishes. There are some amazing handmade artisans doing some fabulous experiments with glazes, impressions and different finishes.


Due to the moldability of ceramic clays, many shapes can be formed and it is suitable to be used in molds to create multiple copies. However, clay needs to be fired in a kiln at high temperatures for an extended period of time, and some finishes require multiple firings. This is somewhat different to polymer clay, which cures at temperatures achievable in an ordinary stove.




Ceramic beads can make a wonderful addition to many creations and work well with other beads types and metals.
 
Photos courtesy of:
LindenAvenueDesigns
Peruzi
MaysFlameworkBeads

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Bead Types - Ceramic
4 March 2010, 12:32 am
Source: Jennifer Mercer, Handmade News Columnist
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