These delicately detailed beads are handmade in South Africa using the age-old technique of "millefiore", or "thousand flowers". It first appeared in glassmaking in ancient Alexandria, and was perfected in the European cities of Murano and Venice. Designs are created in a large, thick disk which is the stretched into a long rod with a tiny, intricate design. This art continues today in our millefiore beads. But instead of glass, our South African artisans use a modern polymer clay to create their colorful designs.

Our Polymer Clay Millefiore Beads are available in in a variety of shapes and designs. Because our beads are handmade, no two are alike! Each bead design can be made into each of the shapes at left, but because each bead is crafted by hand, supplies may be limited. Check our shop for the styles that are currently available.

ABOVE: Clay designs being stretched into rods.

Our beads come in a variety of shapes to create many different jewelry styles. Also check out our bead supplies products for cord & jewelry findings to turn your beads into a one-of-a-kind fashion accessory!