BEAD COLORS

The overall appearance of a bead is primarily determined by the color of the raw glass used. The enormous selection of raw glass colors is the major factor allowing the production of Czech beads in such an incredible richness and diversity.

In the system of bead coding glass colors are referred to by five digit codes. Below are the codes of the most frequented transparent colors. Within a certain color range, highers number mean darker colors.

The following color chart is far from complete, mainly showing the transparent monochrome kinds of glass. Naturally the beads shown lack any surface finish.

In addition to these simple colors, many other kinds of glass exist - opalescent or opaque glass in many colors, or bi- to multicolored kinds of transparent, translucent or opaque glass.

The perception of a color can be influenced by the shape of the bead and primarily by its size, particularly in transparent glass. Larger sizes of the otherwise identical beads may appear darker than smaller ones.

Finally, there is no guarantee that a color is reproduced precisely again and again by the glass makers. Very slight differences in color sometimes occur between glass lots of the same color code made at different time periods. This usually constitutes no problem provided the beads used at a time are homogeneous. In any case, it is recommended to order the beads needed for a specific one-time purpose at one stroke.

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.