A few readers have had problems finding briolettes for the January cover project. When the magazine went to production, I had confirmed that the briolettes were available from Oriental Gemco and Dakota Stones, but it's occasionally difficult for vendors to reorder unusual items.

At Oriental Gemco, I just found these smoky quartz and whiskey quartz briolettes. I know $348 is a lot for gemstones, but the cost comes from the faceting, as well as the material. While you can score good deals if you search long enough, I think you also get what you pay for. That said, holidays (and the generally glum economy) can make reasonably priced gemstones more appealing. For one example, the rose quartz briolettes from The Earth Bazaar are a cost-effective option. Their deals last for one week, though, so don't spend too much time deliberating....

Here are some alternative options:

The Earth Bazaar has some moss agate arrow beads (toward the bottom of the page). Also, Rings & Things has a nice selection of 20 mm fans (also limited stock). Briolettes may also be described as pear-, heart-, onion-, or fan-shaped beads. (I'd suggest forgoing the onion shapes; their roundness makes them a little bulky for this design.)

Try deep violet amethyst twists or citrine marquises (from Earth Bazaar).

House of Gems has smaller (6–14 mm) pear-shaped briolettes (I especially love the ametrine, ruby, and pink tourmaline). You can string this design with smaller briolettes; just use a finer chain — maybe a flattened cable, figaro, or box chain with a bit of sparkle?

I hope this helps. Readers and vendors, we welcome links for any other sources. Thanks!