I and a friend are heading to the Gem & Lapidary Wholesale show in Orlando tomorrow. Hopefully I'll find some excellent quality pearls, gemstone beads and uncut rough for cabbing next summer. I like to pick pearls out in person so I know I'm getting good quality. Having the right stones to work with is the first thing I need to create a design. I will likely be investing in some ergonomic pliers of varying types (ergonomic = expensive). I can feel the stress on my hands with the cheapo ones that are available everywhere so its time to upgrade my tools before I hurt myself!