Lovely Ceramic Beads to Inspire Your Next Jewelry Project

As you progress in designing and translating your visions into physical jewelry, I know for sure that you’ll be looking for more one-of-a-kind beads that’ll make your jewelry far more unique! I’ve been there myself. At some point, you may feel limited with the choices offered by mainstream bead suppliers and that’s ok. 

Scouring for new materials signals a new phase that challenges yourself with newer designs that speak to your own aesthetics. For some, making their own beads become an art of its own apart from the main construction of jewelry. 

Clay has been used to create vessels, beads, tools and other ceramic items dating back to the Mycenaean age.  Clay artifacts are among the most common found at an archaeological site. 

Ceramics now include domestic, industrial and building products, as well as a wide range of ceramic art. My favorite being ART beads and components. These handmade items add a special flare to jewelry designs.

The artists listed below are masters in their craft and a few of my favorite bead artists. I admire their dedication, talent and skill in ceramic bead making.

Xaz Bead Company, Raku by Amy Mealey

“My raku forms represent a merger of ancient form and technique with the most contemporary of ideas. Through the years, my works have taken many directions, but in retrospect, a path can be retraced to my beginnings with clay. These works developed through a process of elimination, casting off any excesses in decoration or design, yet incorporating everything I know about the clay.”

Xaz Nuggets & Pearls

Mary Harding Jewelry

“Each pendant makes its own creative journey as each work is individually hand painted, fired, inspected and then creatively finished to bring out the fusion of contemporary and folk art drawn from the qualities of the clay, the form of the pressed plant and the artistically applied glaze that brings the impression to life and sets its spirit free."

Young Red Oak Leaves Toggle Clasp

I was introduced to Mary's ART beads & components several years ago.  Since then I've collected several of her pieces.  The quality, color and workmanship is top-notch.

Pendant Oak Leaves Spring

Gaea

Gaea is a talented artist who creates many things but ceramic beads have been in her shop for years.  Her whimsical style and love of nature make these creations irresistible.  

The turquoise blue and cranberry round beads in this design were made by Gaea.  I paired them with a beautiful polymer clay bird by Heather Powers of Humblebeads. 

Ceramic Beads by Gaea & Polymer Clay Bird by Humblebeads 

The Clay Hen

Melissa Gabelle describes her work as "quirky functional ware inspired by 1950’s science fiction.  If you wan to design a jewelry piece with a whimsical touch then The Clay Hen is the shop for you.  

These are just few of my favorite ceramic art bead artists and their beautiful one-of-a-kind work. There are so many talented ceramic artists making unique treasures. This is not a complete list by any means (more for another post). Which are you favorites ceramic bead artists? Please add to the list so that we can share these creators with one another, thanks.

Keep Creating,

Karen