I have been making beaded jewelry for about 12 years.  I started with glass beads, antique beads and plated metal beads and findings and now work with semi precious beads, swarovski crystal and sterling silver and gold filled beads and findings.  Semi precious beads are usually in their "natural" state but some beads, like turquoise, are stabilized, meaning they are permeated with a clear resin which hardens the turquoise and makes it resistant to common chemicals like chlorine. Others, like some agate, may be dyed while some may be heat treated, like carnelian, to bring out more color.   

I have sold my jewelry at craft fairs throughout CT, thru retail shops and thru home parties.  I now concentrate on selling thru retail shops and boutiques (although if someone is interested in hosting a home party please let me know and I'll be happy to do that).  I host an Open House twice a year, once in the spring and once in December for Holiday shopping.  I also teach bead stringing classes to teens and adults.  I've had workshops at the Woodbridge Library (several times), Bethel Library, Ridgefield Library as well as at Girl Scout meetings and Home School Association meetings. 

I love going to gem and jewelry shows and picking out beads then getting home to my studio and creating new designs.  Right now my jewelry is being inspired by the beaded jewelry I see in all the fashion magazines.