Lampwork Bead FAQ
What is kiln annealing? How does kiln annealed fortify lampwork beads?
Kiln annealing is a process that ensures the fate of your glass. Annealing slowly cools very hot lampwork beads and this process helps to give these glass beads a tougher core.
After heating and cooling the glass many times to create the designs and brilliant colors that create the work of art, glass becomes stressed out. Kiln annealing reduces that stress.
By reducing tension with a controlled cooling process, lampwork beads are kiln annealed back to a less fragile state. All Austin Hamilton lampwork beads are kiln annealed.
What is Effetre glass?
Effetre glass comes from Murano, Italy. Murano is a tiny Venetian isle that has been home to Venice's glass-making industry for centuries. Fine glass-making is synonymous with Murano and Effetre is one of the glass-making houses firmly established within this world renowned community.
Effetre glass is a soft glass. Soft glass possesses a lower melting temperature, holds heat and has a longer working time when removed from the flame. This means that a skilled artisan can really work designs and colours into each handcrafted lampwork bead without worry. To see these glass beads, see Murano Beads.
How do I properly care for lampwork beads?
Cleaning lampwork beads is easy. All you need to help clean your glass bead jewelry is distilled water and a practical drying cloth. Once you've cleaned your jewelry, dry it thoroughly. Over time, moisture can weaken springs and clasps and break up jewelry cement. Persistent moisture may even tarnish Metal Capped Beads.
Silver doesn't like air. Keep your lampwork bead jewelry with silver accents in a dry, airtight place such as an airtight plastic bag inside your jewelry case. If it is tarnished, wash the silver in warm water with a phosphate-free detergent and dry with a cotton towel. For added protection, line your jewelry case with anti-tarnish strips.
Most chemical cleaners and silver polishes may be too harsh or abrasive for your glass bead jewelry. The best way to ensure the integrity of all parts of your jewelry creations is to use a water and baking soda mixture with an old toothbrush. This is the safest, most cost-effective method to care for your handcrafted lampwork bead jewelry.
