For starters, I’m a geology nut. Rocks and how they form have fascinated me since I was very young, along with ancient jewelry. When I learned that they made beads out of rocks, WOW! I knew exactly where I was headed. My quest for stone beads began. That was a dozen years ago, and I’m still at it. Having a geology hobby has helped immensely when it comes to shopping for the best stone beads I can find. It’s also made me incredibly picky.

The stone bead market is flooded with fakes, and will remain so as long as there’s a market for them. Unscrupulous sellers will tell the uninformed buyer whatever it takes to make a sale, I’ve seen it with my own two eyes. There are also sellers out there who just don’t know a thing about what they’re selling. So, it’s up to you, the buyer, to know what you’re getting in to.

I’ll start a few of my favorite places to get my rocks. When it comes to stones, you can spend a dollar or a hundred dollars, it’s really up to you. There’s a stone for every budget!

Fire Mountain Gems – A good place to start if you’re clueless. :) Their gemstone selection is wide, and they disclose any and all treatments that a stone may have. Their website, and print catalog are both great reference guides to keep on hand. They were the first bead supply company I bought from, and I still do! Their prices can be a bit high on some things, but they have great sales on a regular basis, and their quality is dependable. Sign up for their mailing list and find out!

Beadsonsale.com – I found this seller via eBay about 5 years ago, and have been using them ever since! Their website offers a wide variety of gemstone beads at OUTSTANDING prices and incredible quality. Their service is just as good as the beads they sell. The only improvement I would like to see is a note about any treatments to the stones. Educate yourself and you’ll be fine! This is my favorite stone bead supplier, hands down.

Rings and Things – Great selection, knowledgeable staff and good prices. They disclose any and all treatments to their stones. Check out their reference guide for lots of good information!

Gemphora – Beautiful gemstone beads! Great quality at absolutely AMAZING prices. My new favorite. Sign up for their mailing list to find out what great deals and freebies they’ll be having soon!

So, there you you have it, my favorite places to buy my rocks! Most of these sources also sell other beads, as well as findings and storage. I’ll be reviewing those at a later date.

Blessings.

Peace.

Joy

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