Swarovski (Austrian) Crystals: Made in Austria, Swarovski products are considered to be one of the finest products of their kind in the world. Unlike Czech glass, these are machine polished and are higher in cost than Czech Glass.
Cultura Pearls: Unlike other "faux" pearls, Cultura pearls are a glass (not plastic) based bead, that has actually been given a genuine Pearl coating. Cultura pearls have the same drape, weight and luster as genuine pearls.
Sterling Silver: Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. The copper is necessary for durability and strength since 100% pure silver is too soft to hold up on it's own.
Silver Plate: This has a silver coating on a base metal, usually electroplated or dipped. Most of the silver I use is silver plated over Brass. Cleaned, polished and cared for as sterling, silver plate is a cheaper, yet just as pretty, alternative to sterling silver.
Aurora Borealis Finish: Also known as "AB finish". Its a rainbow finish added to the outside of glass beads after polishing. It gives beads irredescent flashes of colors! It's long lasting and doesn't fade or chip with normal wear.
Bali Beads: True Bali Beads are hand-crafted in Bali, Indonesia. Each bead is made one by one, they are not cast. They are 92.5% sterling silver or better, and since each bead is hand-crafted weight may vary slightly. "Bali style" beads may be sterling silver but are not handmade.