Hazara International Gem

I came in to day specifically to find a few types of stone beads and was happy with the selection and colors offered. I understand the need to sell a volume to maintain business and profitability. I really do think there is more than sufficient options offered here and If I were someone who planned on making a lot of the same type of jewelry, purchases of entire strands of beads would be perfect.
I did buy 3 different strands of beads and I think it is competitively priced for the quantity and quality of the strand of real stone/​crystal beads. i think for some of us, it is unfortunate that we can not purchase a smaller quantity. I think it might be a better option to have some smaller number of stones sold in a bag of beads for those of us that would like to buy a variety without having to overbuy.
Price wise, when you compare these stones/​crystals/​rocks in the quantity against a smaller quantity sold in craft stores, the price is approximately the same. Big box craft stores mark items up and then entice with coupons. So it is possible to get some items cheaper it isn’t as unique of the same quality.
I saw some unique carved shells, carved hematite, and pendants of jade that I liked but I was looking for a «statement» piece/​bead (not exactly like the one that someone took a picture of but you get what I mean) and just didn’t find it today. Based on my current project and pricing needs, that is the reason for 3 stars.
This store does offer a good degree of variety for the size of the shop that. Perhaps if the owner could procure an old home and not have to pay rent to a strip mall, he may be able to be more flexible with his offerings (i.e. not all strands).
As for the owner, he was helpful to me and polite. and he did wish me luck on my current project. So I don’t think you can gauge the review solely on an owner’s response to someone who wants to «test» product by breaking it and not understanding that due to sheer volume, not every strand is priced but all the little containers of beads and findings all had prices (2 for $ 1, $ 2 ea., etc.). The group of strands there is at least one marked with price.

Very nice selection of lapis lazuli, amber and many other gems. also Afghan jade. some unique tribal pieces. owner is very knowledgable and helpful.

The owner is so friendly and helped me for an hour making necklaces. There is a great variety of unique beads. I will be back!

Great bead store. Small enough to browse within 30 minutes-​good for those who can lose track of
time easily!
Not sure about the other negative reviews regarding the owner. Everyone has a bad day here and there.
I thought he was a total sweetheart. Even shy.
Good varied selection of sizes, materials and colors (love the colors selection). However, minus one star bc the store doesn’t carry much in the way of chains.

Horrible place. Nothing was marked what stone it was, the man snipped at me that I was mistaken, that everything was marked, I said the prices are marked but not the type of stone. He said I would need to ask him every time I wanted to know. Who wants to do that?
Then I came upon some stretchy beading string that claimed it was in breakable. There was an open roll on top, so I figured you could see for yourself, it snapped apart pretty quickly, so I put it down. He came up and scolded me like I was a little child.
I will NEVER set foot in that store again.

Horrible place. The man at the register rudely asked if he could help me. I told him that I would like to look around. He glared. I thought the merchandise was cheap. As I left the store I said «thank you. The man never acknowledged me. It’s clear why this store is always empty.

The owner was very helpful. He knew healing properties of the stones. I liked the place & will certainly go back

I was greeted with indifference and a snide comment. I used to go here with my kids but I think it must be under new management. Won’t go again.

Haroon at Hazara is very knowledgeable about the semi-​precious and precious beads that he carries by the strand. He has a very diverse selection of strung beads for making your own designs, sorted by color and type. Don’t be off put by his shyness, he is very helpful! I’ve been shopping here for years and can’t seem to make it out without at least two or three new strands. Great amber bead selection, as well silver 925 beads, unique focal pieces and pendants. Beads hang in strands knotted at the top; slide the strand you select out of the knot. If it doesn’t slide out, he may need to cut it. I like how he labels the bags with prices. This is helpful unknowing how much I paid for the beads when selling finished designs. I will be a faithful customer as long as he’s around. Centrally located just east of Alameda and Colorado Blvd.