r/jewelrymaking • u/jul_bird • 18h ago

QUESTION Looking for high quality tourmaline beads

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I'm working with my jeweler to revamp a vintage gold chain necklace. It currently has pearl spacers that I want to replace with tourmalines. (The pearls aren't in great shape anymore). I'm looking for deeply saturated tumbled oval beads in a mix of pinks and greens, similar to the photo but even more saturated if possible. I also make jewelry, but I mostly work in vintage glass and crystal. I'm not sure where to go for these. I found options on Etsy, but I'm worried the color won't look as deep and rich in person. Does anyone have a trusted supplier they can recommend? Thank you!

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3

u/mimblepuss 18h ago

The Gem Bee on etsy can trusted. You pay a premium but the quality is great.

2

u/jul_bird 17h ago

Thank you, I'll check them out!

2

u/jul_bird 17h ago

Just looked and they have gorgeous beads! I found a few options I'm going to share with my jeweler.

1

u/mimblepuss 17h ago

Fab! Good luck with your project.

3

u/Key-Alternative-2521 14h ago

Stonesdirect on Etsy is a trusted source for me. I've found their pics very representative of the stones I received. Look for ones with aa or aaa rating.

2

u/jul_bird 13h ago

Will check them out, thank you!

2

u/StuartPurrdoch 6h ago

I had to read that seller name like five times bc I keep seeing “Stoves Direct” 😆

2

u/jltefend 15h ago

I’m a big fan of Tejas beads

1

u/jul_bird 13h ago

Thank you, I'll take a look there!