I usually wear jewelry I made myself, and most people know this so will comment on them.
However, I rarely wear collectible beads. To me, they are just not very easy to fit with my style of designing. When I left my last job, I gave everyone a small millefiori bead with a card and an explanation. It quickly showed me which people were really fascinated, and which people did not really care for beads of any kind.

In the Netherlands, very few people wear collectible beads. When I do see someone with interesting beads, I will stare at them, and sometimes compliment them.

If I meet someone wearing interesting beads I cannot help really staring at them.

Sometimes I even manoeuvre a way to get nearer for a closer look.

It must be disconcerting to the wearer, if they notice.

Sometimes on the street I spy a necklace that I know well, then I realise that I strung those beads, they are as familiar as faces to me.

but I love when questions or comments are made on my beads/jewelry. Since I work in NY, there are people who wear incredible pieces of jewelry...spanning quite the range. But I love if someone comes to me & asks me about my necklace, or wants to know where they can buy a similar one, or tells me they love it! I love to talk about my beads, so it always opens up an interesting conversation. Whether I'm in the subway, or on the street, I see it all as a compliment I guess! Lynne

Absolutely- at our (well, my) age the face and often neck says "old", even on those who use inappropriate cosmetics, surgery, replace and try to colour their hair, etc. but my or their beads can say more than merely "I'm rich" -
So rather "stunning", "grand", "wacky", "important", "i have travelled" etc.. and one's beads can still start a conversation between people...
Also its a lot easier with large beads because they can be discerned from the other side of the room, or the street...

you help them understand age, where they were made and some interesting information on the beads you are wearing. With a little input they usually open up and ask more questions.

-Matt

Though it is a treat when I'm surprised with an educated sentiment.

Usually it's cashiers "checking out" my beads at the checkout counter, but I'll take the compliments where I can find them!