Artists at Play:Rings & Things Bead Show in Denver
Categories: Art Biz, Artists at Play, beads, shopping
Rings & Things made a stop in Denver on their 2011 Bead Tour, and I was so excited to attend my first wholesale show! I went armed with a list, notebook, calculator, and ample time. It proved to be a great show, and I am thrilled to be a new customer of Rings & Things!
Though they had wire, jewelry findings and crystals available, I was primarily interested in shopping for semi-precious gemstone beads. Brimming with excitement, I browsed the many tables for hours. I felt like I was back in my college geology course while I curiously examined the vast array of colors, sizes, styles (and prices) of gemstones.
I think it’s important to attend one of these shows if you are new to the jewelry business. Not only is it an opportunity to buy inventory at a discount, but seeing gemstones in person is much more informative than browsing a catalog. Rings & Things has a beautiful catalog that’s well-organized with brilliant full-color pictures, but it makes a difference to see gemstones up close. You can better appreciate their true color, opacity, weight and shape.
As a “show newbie,” I was daunted by the task of selecting beads for my business. They are all so beautiful- how can you choose?
First: I established a reasonable budget, and I was determined to stick to it!
Second: I researched a few bead catalogs and magazines I had to familiarize myself with names of stones, and which types I was drawn to.
Third: I made sure all my beads were organized before I attended the show, and I wrote a list of “holes” I had in my inventory.
Fourth: I attended the show with the resources I needed to successfully meet my budget goals : notebook, calculator, and time!
Here are some of the lovely beads I bought
(which I am excited to start working with!)
Rhodonite, Pink Crazy Lace Agate, and Rose Quartz
Carnelian
Goldstone, Citrine and Yellow Jade (Serpentine)
Olive Jade (Serpentine)
Moss Agate, Lizardite (Serpentine),
and African Green Jasper
Blue Lace Agate and Sodalite
Smoky Quartz, Red Creek Jasper,
and Brown Snowflake Obsidian
Snowflake Obsidian, Howlite, Moonstone, and Black Onyx
I had a great time, and was equally giddy when I brought my treasures home to show off! I will definitely be attending the Rings & Things show again next year. In fact, I’m sorta a huge fan of theirs now that I’ve had the opportunity to experience their service and product!
(I’m also realizing that I totally love rocks…especially smooth, shiny colorful ones!)
