FAQ

Do your beads fit Pandora™ or Trollbeads™ bracelets?

Any custom made lampwork glass bead can be ordered to fit a Pandora™ or Trollbeads™ bracelet.

How long does it take to make a bead?

I think this is the most asked question. It takes about 5-10 minutes to make ONE lampwork glass bead. It depends on the design – but when working with melting glass, one must work quickly. Of course, this doesn’t include the time spent on design conception, annealing, reaming, cleaning up, etc.

What is the difference between imported lampwork beads and beads made by Mad Glass Beads – and why are Mad Glass Beads so expensive?

The difference between imported lampwork beads and beads made by Mad Glass Beads is quality and attention to detail. Imported lampwork beads from India, China, etc. are inexpensive because they are made with cheap glass, are mass-produced (lack of quality control), and crack/break more readily as they are not kiln annealed. These beads are usually ‘dusty’ – which are the remains of the high-fire clay the coats the mandrel in the bead making process. When the finished bead is removed from the mandrel, the clay is broken, and the material remains attached to the glass inside the hole of the bead. This is a ceramic dust and should not be inhaled. Mad Glass Beads are made with high quality Italian (Effetre) glass, are all kiln annealed, hand reamed under water to remove any remnant harmful clay dust, and are made with precision and care.

How can I determine my ring size?

If you don’t know your ring size, we have two easy options for you using our printable download – Mad Glass Beads Ring Size Chart:

Option 1 – Print and Trim Ring Sizer
Print and trim our ring sizer. Place the sizer around your finger and pull the tab through the slot until the paper is snug around your finger. Read your finger size on the scale. Be sure to check the size of your printout for accuracy!

Click here to download: Mad Glass Beads Ring Size Chart

Option 2 – Measure an Existing Ring
Place an existing ring over the circles below. The edge of the circle should be barely visible through the ring’s inner circumference. Be sure to check the size of your printout for accuracy!

Click here to download: Mad Glass Beads Ring Size Chart

How long will my order take to ship?

All orders are custom made to order. Depending on the current order queue and inventory, your order may ship in as little as 36 hours, or up to 5 business days.

How is my order shipped?

All orders are shipped via USPS Priority Mail. US orders are charged a flat fee of $7.50, and international orders a flat fee of $25.00. Delivery to US destinations in about 3 days, delivery to international destinations in about 6 – 11 days. All items are packed for safe travel and include packaging suitable for gift giving.