Cooled and Strong Beads in Kiln

A Process of Lampworked Beads by Carole French

Making beads over a torch

Annealing Beads At Moretti's Stress Point

an·neal
v.   an·nealed, an·neal·ing, an·neals
v.   tr.

  1. To subject (glass or metal) to a process of heating and slow cooling in order to toughen and reduce brittleness.
  2. To strengthen or harden .

All of my beads are kiln annealed for strength and durability.  The majority of glass that I use is Moretti Itialian Glass 104 COE or compatible glass with Moretti.  Moretti is very soft glass, though there is softer glass, I was spoiled in using it in my first lessons and studies. 
(Contact me to find out why it is so important to purchase only annealed glass beads and gifts created this way.)