Glass making in the Czech Republic (Czechoslovakia) is an age-old cottage industry. Grindstones are used to create beautiful smooth textures on the glass beads, honing them over and over to create a smooth, glassy, 'soft to the touch' finish. There are many varieties of colors and shapes which make these beads super unique. They are durable but still lightweight and easy to wear. Simply Cheri uses these glass beads to hand craft one-of-a-kind style earrings for all ages!