Creating hand blown glass beads is an art in itself and labor intensive. It is traditionally called lampworking.
A torch is used to melt glass rods. The rods are spun to create a hole in the bead. Then the hot glass is swirled and shaped to form unique designs and styles. The colors of glass rods are endless like the rainbow.
Metals such as fine silver and gold may be mixed in with the glass before the beads are finished in a hot kiln to strengthen them. This process is amazing!