Bellaire Bead Shop

Very charming and eclectic shop. I never managed to go by here when the shop was actually in Bellaire but I’m glad I finally have since it’s moved. Houston is definitely a little bit cooler because of this shop. On a side note, I cannot believe the two users one-​starred their reviews because they couldn’t «charge it». There’s obviously a artisan shoestring, labor of love element to the place and maybe the credit card fees eat too much of the price or maybe they’re one of a gazillion merchants that have been burned by Visa. In any event, some know that as a general rule, the closer you get to actual individuals creating art and products, the less likely they are to have the infrastructure in place to transact via paypal, credit card, NFC or whatever. I actually never noticed if they take credit cards, since I paid cash, which I bring when I’m shopping. I also spent about (30 minutes?) wandering transfixed in a sea of sparkling baubles surrounded by walls of beads. At times, I felt like I was nine with wonder. Some rooms were interspersed with crystals and stones bearing Asian and arcane symbols and I left with one of these enigmatic stones. No Pier One or Hobby Lobby is like it. The Bellaire Bead shop needs to be seen to be believed.

Doesn’t take credit cards, so be sure to take cash or check.

This place does not take credit cards.

I love Houston as much as the next girl, but it’s no character-​trove. Enter the Bellaire Bead Shop… if you’re willing to hunt, you can find awesome gems and stones on the cheap, as well as ready-​made jewelery from the overpriced Francesca’s for literally 5% of the price. It’s practically free compared to the other bead stores around town… plus, the profits from the store go to charity, so shopping there is actually a good deed?