FAQ
Do you do bespoke orders?
Yes! Collaborating on special pieces is one of our favourite things to do. See our bespoke page for inspiration and examples of pieces we have made for clients in the past. We can usually accommodate rush orders if you have a pressing deadline (or a forgotten anniversary). Email studio@allisonbryan.co.uk to get the ball rolling.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, all items shipped internationally will be sent using Royal Mail’s Airsure service. You will be provided with the tracking number once the item has shipped.
Can I come see your studio?
We welcome visitors to our Hatton Garden studio, just email us to arrange a time. You can also collect items ordered online in person at the studio, just leave us a note in the “Notes to Seller” field when checking out.
What are trade beads, and where do they come from?
Trade beads were produced in Europe beginning in the 15th century, mainly in Venice and Bohemia. Due to their beauty and the advanced techniques of the glass artisans, which were unknown elsewhere in the world, they were hugely in demand. The beads were used as a form of currency to be traded for goods all over the world and were particularly popular in Africa, where they were collected and used for adornment or traded on to other tribes and villages. The beads we use in our trade bead bracelets were produced in Venice around 1900 for use in the palm oil trade in West Africa. You can see some of our beads in the collection of the British Museum. They are sourced in West Africa, primarily in Ghana and are handmade into bracelets in our studio in London, where they are accented with fine silver from Thailand and 14-carat gold from Los Angeles.
Sizing Guide
Bead bracelets come in Women's, Men's and XL sizes. Take size XL for a larger wrist or a looser fit.
Ring Size Equivalents
UK USA
J 5
K 5.5
L 6
M 6.5
N 7
O 7.5
P 8
Q 8.5
R 9
S 9.5
T 10
U 10.5
V 11
