What are some guidelines for distinguishing between antique and contemporary beads?

One way is to check the size and wear of the bead hole. Vintage beads typically have larger holes. And if the beads have been worn for an extended period of time, the inside of the bead hole will show some erosion from string wear.

The surface of older beads also will have a more muted, aged appearance resulting from their exposure to the air and contact with the previous owners' skin. Buyers should examine vintage beads carefully for nicks and other signs of wear.

Also consult reference books, such as Collectible Beads (published by Ornament Magazine) or The History of Beads by Lois Dubin. They can be very helpful in providing more information about the beads in which you are interested and tips for making the best selections.

How do you determine when nylon, silk, or softflex wire is best for stringing beads?

We string mostly with nylon. It is very durable, strong and pliable and the beads lay very evenly.

Silk is used generally when forming knots between beads because it is easier to make and position the knots. While silk is stronger than nylon, it loses that strength when it gets wet.

Softflex wire is more appropriate for metal and heavier beads and sharp-edged glass beads that can cut through nylon. Softflex wire also is good for necklaces that you wear all the time, including when you bathe or shower.

It is not well suited for stringing seed and other delicate beads, since the wire's stiffness prevents the beads from laying evenly and can distort the shape of your necklace, bracelet or other jewelry.

How does glue help protect my necklaces?

Glue is very useful in securing clasps to finished necklaces. Place a double or triple knot around the clasp and cover with a clear adhesive glue -- such as crystal cement, "crazy" glue, or in their absence, clear nail polish. This protects the knot from fraying and prevents the clasp from becoming separated, which could result in the loss of your necklace.

Is it okay to hang necklaces and bracelets on a hook when not in use?

Avoid hanging your beaded jewelry. It stretches out the string over time and causes spaces to appear between the beads or between the last bead in the string and the clasp. The beads become unsightly to look at and the weakened string may break more easily.

How important is knotting between beads?

The most important reason to knot is to protect your necklace in case the string breaks, so that you don't lose valuable beads. For inexpensive beads, it's a matter of taste -- you like the appearance knotting provides. Silk lends itself readily to knotting, but wire does not.

What's the reason for using bead tips at the end of necklaces, bracelets or other strung jewelry?

There are two important benefits. Bead tips cover and protect the knot at the end of the necklace -- providing a nice professional appearance. And they secure the necklace, so that if the clasp breaks you can remove it from the bead tip and attach a new one. Without the bead tip, the entire necklace might have to be re-strung if there was only a knot around the clasp.