Book Review: 1000 Beads

Continuing our reviews of inspiring jewellery books, Anna Campbell takes a look a must for all bead lovers.

If you’re not familiar with publisher Lark Crafts ‘500 series’ of books then you’re in for a treat. Each book features 500 gorgeous pieces of contemporary craft following a theme and with titles such as 500 rings and 500 pendants and lockets (among others) there are lots (and lots!) of gorgeous pieces to inspire.

The latest book gives us even more – 1000 beads. Beads have been made and worn for at least 40,000 years with many beautiful examples being found at archaeological digs. The importance of jewellery and adornment through the centuries has been demonstrated with beads being found in graves and featured in art including sculpture.

The latest offering from Lark Crafts is an enchanting book to flick through or pore over featuring beads made from artists from all over the world (including Lynne Glazzard from Yorkshire whose silver clay, enamel and glass lampwork beads feature on the front cover). This satisfyingly weighty book will appeal to all those with a love of jewellery and jewellery making. T

he beads are made by contemporary artists from many types of materials from the more traditional glass, silver, ceramic and enamel to metal clay, polymer clay, felt, paper, beadweaving and bone. Some of the images are of individual beads, some of a collection of beads or a piece like a necklace. All are worthy of inclusion in a book juried by Kristina Logan, international recognised for her glass bead artistry.

It is a lovely book to flick through and marvel at the artistry. Definitely a book (and a series) for the jewellery makers bookcase.

Anna Campbell is an experienced teacher and enjoys different types of jewellery making including beading and metal clay. She runs her own business, Light Boat Jewellery and has made jewellery for celebrities.

If you want to share a review of an inspirational jewellery book, drop an email to press@londonjewelleryschool.co.uk.