Artists at Play:Rings & Things Bead Show in Denver | Elysian Studios

Artists at Play:Rings & Things Bead Show in Denver

Categories: Art Biz, Artists at Play, beads, shopping

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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.

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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!)

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Rhodonite, Pink Crazy Lace Agate, and Rose Quartz


 
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Carnelian

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Goldstone, Citrine and Yellow Jade (Serpentine)

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Olive Jade (Serpentine)

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Moss Agate, Lizardite (Serpentine),

and African Green Jasper

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Blue Lace Agate and Sodalite

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Smoky Quartz, Red Creek Jasper,

and Brown Snowflake Obsidian

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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!)

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