The “Egyptian Crystal” beads created here at Fire Gems Studio, is the result of a process rediscovered by a Russian born artist and further developed in Hawaii in the early 1970’s. In 1985, this artist contacted designer Debbie McLelland, the formulas were purchased, and Debbie began her own personal journey into the world of bead making. Now, you too can wear the art of ancient Egyptians. Many of the original designs at Fire Gems Studio include Egyptian Crystal beadwork.

This ancient Egyptian technology dates back to the 18th Dynasty, approximately 1570-1349 B.C. Thirteen distinctive Pharaohs reigned during this era, including the well known and mysterious “boy king,” Tutankhamen, son of Akhenaten. In November 1922, the fabulously rich tomb of Tutankhamen was unearthed by British Archaeologist, Howard Carter in Luxor, Egypt. Egyptian burial tombs have produced countless embellished artifacts, including breathtaking jewelry encrusted with Egyptian crystals.

Several fascinating steps were involved for slaves to produce these stunning beads made from the sands of Egypt. Many centuries ago, the process began with using metal rods, made from “blast furnaces.” These rods were then covered in various metals and dipped into different assortments of colored glass chunks. The artisans of the time held each rod over large vats of fire and hand spun the rich glimmers of color into finished sections of molten glass. After each bead had been cooled properly, a collection of beads were placed in various earthenware containers. The Egyptians had developed a type of acid that would burn through metal without fracturing or damaging glass. This acid was placed in these clay pots, sealed, and buried beneath ground. After a period of time, this special acid would eat away the metal base of each buried bead, leaving only the beauty of the reflective glass.

At Fire Gems Studio, the process still involves making beads one at a time, but now they are spun over an open gas torch. Since purchasing the process over 20 years ago, we have developed our own formulas to exact and specific color combinations, shapes, and textures.

Adorned strictly by the wealthy, these crystal beads covered exquisite Egyptian jewelry, clothing, head dressings, and numerous other accessory items. Today, here in our studio, this ancient work continues.