Topic: Glass sphere with loop and rainbow swirl - what is it?

[wolkenreb]

Right enough Frank.  Quite a variety of lampwork glass rings on Etsy, and a few similar in form to mine.  Oh well    Rather a boring result.

Appreciate everyone's input.

Nancy

[Frank]

There are a few beadmakers and quite a few lampworkers that also make beads that fall into the very exciting category. It is a skill that takes a small amount of training and a minimal amount of equipment. What makes the difference is of course, as with any glass, the creativity that is applied. Check out Rachel Elliot - an important Scottish glass artist doing some wonderful things in the smallest of 'afforable' packages... she sells on Etsy but you can short cut the hunt here http://www.rachel-elliott.com/

[wolkenreb]

Yes, I agree about lampwork being exciting and very beautiful too sometimes.  I do a fair bit of beading and use a lot of lampwork beads.  It amazes me the amount of detail that can go into them, and it always seems a shame that they are just hanging from a bracelet, necklace etc as you have to see them close up to really appreciate them.

I am posting one last picture.  I DO think this is quite beautiful, it just makes an ugly ring.  My mum agrees!  I would have thought that whoever made this would have made the band round rather than U shaped.  This photo gives a better idea of why it seems an unlikely ring, unless it is just not very well made . . .

[Frank]

... unless it is just not very well made . . .

Seems to be the case. But as long as it can still give pleasure....