DIGITAL CODING OF CZECH GLASS BEADS

The use of standardized digital coding to label glass products was introduced by the Czech government during the post-war history of the Czech glass making industry. Unlike most other communist inventions, it proved quite practical, particularly in the bead industry. Most Czech bead producers still profit from this coding system, which seems to remain viable at least for several decades to come.

The digital code (often referred to as the article number) says unequivocally what kind, shape and size of a bead you have before you, and also informs about the color of the raw glass used, and the surface finish, if any.

A typical digital code looks like this:

151 29001   40020   28701   8/4mm

Below are a few examples of the coding of bead kinds and shapes:

It may be helpful to consult the answers to frequently asked questions before you place an order with us. Wholesale prices can be found here (registered business partners only) or here. Retail price lists can be accessed here. Retail orders from the public exceeding US$50 are encouraged, but please be aware of the minimum quantity limits. All sizes are in millimeters (mm), 1 inch equals 25.4 mm.