Why I make the Beads

I have been making Lamp Work Glass Beads since 1992 to put into my own jewelry.  I was asked occasionally over the years if I would make memorial beads, and I always resisted... until I lost someone close to me.  I made my first set at that point (around 2012 or so).  I started to realize through my own experience, and after making some for friends... how much these beads mean to those who have lost a family member or friend.  I make the beads with the deepest respect and I put a lot of care into them. Everyone grieves differently... sometimes it helps to have something physical to hold on to, to wear or to keep in a special place.  I see how moved the families are when they get the finished beads, and when they realize what they are holding in their hands.   I am very honored to have the opportunity to help you with this process.                                       - Theresa Ostertag, Artist

Elliott's Ashes

Elliott was my Very Special Kitty.   He slept curled up in my arms every night,  and he loved to hang out with me in my studio when I was making jewelry.  He would sleep lying across the open boxes of beads on my work table, like he was guarding them (dragon kitty with his treasures?)... it couldn't have been very comfortable!  He died several years ago at the age of 17 and I had him Cremated.  I made my first set of Pet Memorial Beads after his passing.  When I was working on this web site I decided to make all the samples of my Memorial Beads from his Ashes as well.  I'm sure he would be proud.