I have loved Japanese art, textiles, and the distinctive and beautiful metal work since I was in grade school, when a family friend brought me a kimono and obi (child-size) from a trip to Japan.

The photo below is not a bead, but a lovely brooch brought back to the US by my father, who was stationed in Japan after the war. It is about 60 mm in length. One of my favorite family heirloom pieces.