ArtFire

This listing is for one Handmade Lampwork Barrel Focal Bead, the complete title of which is Light Steel Grey Ivory Coast.

This lovely Focal Bead, one from the Ivory Coast series, features a Light Steel Grey glass as its base. Shards of hand-blown Silvered Ivory glass are placed on the base in a manner reminiscent of geographic coastlines. Texture and accent arise from the shards, as does a subtle iridescence.

Light Steel Grey Ivory Coast has been lightly acid-etched, giving it a velvety smooth look and feel. Etched beads have matte finishes which make them both visual and tactile delights.

This striking and singular Focal piece measures approximately 45mm x 14mm, and has been hand-wound on a 3/32" (2.38mm) mandrel.

A most important part of the creation process involves the annealing of the bead. As annealing has a direct effect on the longevity, strength, durability, and continuing beauty of the piece, I use a kiln designed for temperatures in excess of 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperatures are controlled digitally, by a state-of-the-art Fuji computerized controller, which is calibrated for optimum results.

A little about me: I am a single mother of two children, and have been a full-time lampworker for the past eight years. A home studio permits me to give both jobs the attention they need and deserve. All of my beads are handmade, by me, in the studio. I have assistants, who help with photography, posting listings, shipping, and cleaning beads.

I am so fortunate to be able to support my little family by doing what I love. All of my beads are shipped quickly and creatively packaged. I always stand behind my work and treat my buyers with honesty and respect, which is why so many come back time and time again...or maybe it's the little freebies that find their way into the packages now and again!

Lampwork glass, silvered ivory shards