They're beads i got at the Gem Faire, a traveling show that comes round twice a year. I'm in Oregon, but i think there might be something similar in the eastern part of the country. they make beads out of anything they can, these days. you could probably google "bead show" or something similar and find out when something might be in your area. Avoid paying retail if you can! Of course, the really hard core go to Tucson in about a month. I don't know if i'm going this year; my husband will be, but i feel inclined to stay at home.