Yayin: A Legacy of Lampwork Beads

Yayin Glassworks is a treasured part of the Ava Motherwell Collection, holding a special place in my journey through the world of beads. I first had these exquisite lampwork beads made for me during a buying trip to Germany in 1993, and they quickly became a signature element of my booth.

Lampworking, also known as flameworking, is a centuries-old art form in which a torch is used to melt and shape glass rods into stunning, intricate designs. These particular beads are crafted with layers of glass and silver foil, then finished with a delicate matting technique, creating an almost ethereal glow—as if the bead is lit from within.

What makes these beads even more special is the vintage glass rods used in their creation—colors that simply can’t be reproduced today. Sadly, the master artisans who once crafted them have passed on, making these beads truly irreplaceable. However, over the past 30+ years, I have built an extraordinary collection, preserving their beauty and legacy for fellow bead lovers to cherish.

Stay tuned as I share more about these rare and beautiful beads—each one a tiny piece of history, art, and craftsmanship. 💎✨