Depending on what you are looking for, there are some great beads at cheap prices on the internet. You need to have a bit of knowledge to make sure you are not getting scammed, but if you start small, the risk is small.

You should check out the internet listings of people that are forum members and others that have a good reputation. I for one have been listing good quality Colonial era trade beads and ancient beads from all over on eBay and have been lucky to get my $4.95 opening bid. The market seems very slow right now for most beads, especially those out of the ordinary or any that aren't dzi, pumtek, coral or amber.

Be patient and don't give up. The hunt and challenge is a big part of the fun. (The group of 10 beads shown below recently sold for the $4.95 opening bid)

Happy collecting...