Why Czech glass? Of all the materials I’ve worked with Czech glass beads are my favorite!
Glass beads were first made in the Czech Republic (formerly Czechoslovakia, formerly North Bohemia) over 800 years ago. In 1928 the area became the largest exporter of beads in the world. Despite communist occupation and two world wars the industry survived and thrives today due to the high quality and unique color and shape of the beads.
Many of the beads are created using the same techniques that have been around for over 100 years. That’s why the beads often have a vintage/old world look to them.
The vendors I purchase beads from work directly with the bead makers in Czech Republic - so there is just one person between me and the bead makers.
