Heishi Beads

Stones can be carved into any shape, although many are cut to similar facets as natural gems. Furthermore, these faceted beads can be made oval, square, rhombus, rondelle, and other forms, apart from round.  Differing shapes add interest to your design. Many are obvious like heart or leaf - but others, like briolette or rhombus, are not so well know.  Familiarize yourself to the standard shapes; it will improve your jewellery making.  Remember, beads are three-dimensional: so round or oval can also be flat or puff.  Pillow can be rectangle or square, and nugget can be almost any shape not uniform, sometimes called freeform.