Adding Beads and Keeping them in Place

Adding Beads

One end of each chain usually features some type of closure,
such as a Lobster clasp or Hinged clasp. The other end of each
chain houses a small connector which fastens to the clasp on the
opposite end of the chain. Simply slide the beads over the open
end of the bracelet or chain to design your story.


Prevent Sliding with Grippers and Clips
Grippers have a rubber washer located in the center which helps to
prevent beads from sliding. These can be used as decorative spacers

or as the last bead on your bracelet or chain. Simply push over the
open end and turn slightly when applying the bead to your bracelet or chain.

Clips are used to help hold beads in place. While opened, you actually place the clip onto the chain and clip it into place.

I recommend using at least one of the clips or grippers and placing them as the last bead on the open end of your bracelet or chain. This will also help prevent your beads from sliding off when you are putting your bracelet or necklace on to wear.


Ann with Reflection Beads

Quest for a Bead

Have you ever sat with your Grandma or Grandpa and listened to the stories that they have to tell? If your experience is anything like mine, these are stories that you can recite word for word as they are being told for the hundredth time. The irony is how much you cherish those same stories once your loved one is taken from this world.

My grandmother was a very religious, typical, little old lady who always had on a "House Dress" and slippers. Her house had a large wrap around porch and was located close to train tracks. Several hours were often spent sitting on that porch, watching trains go by and listening to her stories.

On my quest to find the perfect bead that would best represent my grandma, I started in several different directions. A cross or an angel came to mind, but just didn't feel right. She loved to cook and bake, but that didn't hit home. Then as I was flipping through the Relfection Beads website, I came across the Sterling Silver and Gold Anchor clip bead; it reached out of my monitor and grabbed me. I was completely intrigued as I felt immediately that this was the bead I was looking for; it was perfect. Grandma was the oldest ancestor that I personally knew and was the anchor to my existence. Every story she told me was a monologue of strength that she herself did not see. The anchor = the symbol of hope for future generations.
Researching the meaning of the anchor, I came across a passage that reads:
"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." (Hebrews 6:19)

The anchor clip bead fit my story like the glass slipper fit onto Cinderella's foot-it fit perfectly. Which bead or beads fit perfectly into Your Story?



Ann with Reflection Beads