I don't know about you, but for me the beginning of August really highlights the fact that we're now hurtling towards the end of the year! It's not all doom and gloom though - whilst the weather is particularly wild and wooly down here in Victoria, it won't be long until the sun starts to shine and the days get longer - something to look forward to! Our monthly special for August is a great bargain, and never before seen prices on high quality Czech glass pearls. Be sure to jump on it though - we expect some styles and colours to run out quickly!

These fantastic Czech Glass Pearl bead strands are currently on sale: regular price $7.50, clearance price $3 now only $1 per strand.  Sale prices are available online and instore, until the 31st August (some colour levels low and expected to run out).

This month we have a range of new organza bags available on the website and instore (larger range of colours available online & instore). These lightweight and pretty bags are perfect for gifting or selling your created jewellery:

Our latest set of beading classes is now available to see on our website! Come along and join in on the fun and excitement of jewellery making, with classes available for those just starting out, to the more advanced. Class numbers are limited, so call and book into the class of your choice today. Classes are held at our shop in Cheltenham, Victoria. Don't forget that we have a great range of free beading instructions available for download.

We hold beginners classes twice a month and advanced classes twice a month. A beginners stringing necklace must be completed before attempting an advanced class. Advanced classes change every month - keep an eye on our website for the latest list! Our upcoming classes are:

Thursday 9th August, 12:00pm – 2:00pm

***ADVANCED – $28 per person, includes all materials***

Not confident in turning loops on head pins and eye pins? Once you've finished this class you certainly should be! Using lovely sparkly Swarovski crystal beads, this charm bracelet involves a lot of practice of turning loops and working with jump rings.

Colour of findings is silver - students are able to choose colour of beads on the day. Class sizes limited, so call us on 9584 1678 to book in today.

Thursday 16th August, 12:00pm – 2:00pm

***ADVANCED – $56 per person, includes purchase of your own knotting tool and all materials***

Learn to make this gorgeous knotted glass pearl bracelet in our 2 hour class. You will learn to use the knotting tool, which will allow you to create knotted pearl and gemstone jewellery.

Colour of findings is silver - students are able to choose colour of beads on the day. Class sizes limited, so call us on 9584 1678 to book in today.

#BeadsInHistory: This bead has been dated to between 2000-1850 BCE and due to the use of the "exotic" agate material is though to have been imported as a bead from outside Mesopotamia and later carved into a seal. It attests to the growing trade networks connecting Mesopotamia with central Asia and India.

Currently held in the Walters Art Museum (Maryland, USA). Image courtesy of Walters Art Museum, used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

Follow us on Facebook for more info on historical beads, as well as updates on the pups, places to visit in the local area, gemmology updates, beading tips, sale products and more!