About Us
Beads Of Paradise began in the late 1980’s as a small store in the East Village. We originally specialized in African antiquities, textiles, beads and jewelry – but as interest in world art and beads grew throughout the 1990s, we underwent a major expansion and moved to our current location in the historic Flatiron district of New York City.
We refreshed our already copious inventory to include wonderful new goods from South East Asia, India, Indonesia, China, the Middle East, and now Mexico. Just a few examples include: sterling silver from Bali and Mexico; ancient glass beads from China; hand crafted silk products and bamboo lacquerware from Vietnam; gorgeous temple offering containers and guardian angels from Burma; Hindu religious artifacts and paintings from India; hand-carved wooden Buddhas and Buddhist amulets from Thailand; beautifully crafted nichos, cajas, and antique retablos from Mexico; and hand-woven natural textiles from all of the aforementioned countries. We are also proud to offer one of the most unique collections of semi-precious stone beads, sold both by the strand and individually.
Our beads are a truly breathtaking selection of only the finest examples of glass, metal, wood, and shell, as well as fine gold and silver and semi-precious stones, collected from across the globe. We feature a vast collection that ranges from 18th Century European trade glass to contemporary “powder glass” from West Africa to wooden prayer beads from Nepal to the finest Opals from Australia. We also offer all the accompanying jewelry making supplies such as cords, findings, and tools.
We operate as a retail store, but offer a healthy discount for volume purchases, designers, and resellers. We provide custom jewelry design and repair services on premises, so you can have that perfect piece you've dreamt of created for you, or wear again a beloved piece that's been sitting broken in your drawer. In addition, every weekend we host the “Findings Crash Course”, a beginner’s jewelry making class for budding designers and bead enthusiasts, in addition to other classes designed to further your skill-set.
Beads of Paradise has also become known for our rich collection of semi-precious stone necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, which are hand-crafted right here in the store. Our entire staff is highly trained in bead knowledge and lore, as well as jewelry design and repair. We can restring your Grandmother’s pearls or help you design and create an original piece for that special someone. We carry the widest range in unique gift items and are the perfect one-stop-shop for any Holiday or special occasion.
So please, enjoy our website and better yet…visit the store if you find yourself in the NYC area!