From Bean Counter
to Bead Counter

Handcrafted jewelry inspired by the colors, textures, and free spirit of the American Southwest.

17.9k
Happy customers
16+
Years on Etsy
4.9★
Average rating
278+
Unique designs
Lily — founder of The Bead Counter Handcrafted beads and stones

The Person Behind
Every Bead

My name is Lily and I have a confession to make: I'm a "bean counter." Yes, that's right — an accountant who makes jewelry and runs a shop. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Economics and earned my MBA in Accounting in 2013, yet numbers were never my true passion.

As a child, I was enchanted by color, patterns, and all the intricate details of good design. Though I initially chose the "safe" path of a traditional career, my heart always gravitated toward the arts and crafts.

After my daughter was born in 2018, I began to rethink what I truly wanted in life. I realized I wasn't fully embracing the passions that make me feel alive — especially jewelry. This pursuit of harmony led me to start teaching myself jewelry-making with wire and beads.

Now, as of 2019, I create handmade beaded jewelry and gifts inspired by a vibrant boho and southwestern flair — celebrating the natural beauty of stones and beads, combining artistic detail with a rustic, free-spirited aesthetic.

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Made with Purpose

My designs celebrate the natural beauty of stones and beads, combining artistic detail with a rustic, free-spirited aesthetic.

Made by Hand

Every single piece is hand-strung by me personally. No machines, no mass production — just skill, patience, and care in every bead.

One of a Kind

Natural stones are never identical. Each piece carries its own unique color variation and character — making your jewelry truly one of a kind.

Genuine Materials

I use only authentic natural stones — turquoise, spiny oyster, coral, freshwater pearl, jasper, and more — sourced for their beauty and integrity.

Custom Made

Choose your length, metal, and color at checkout. I make every necklace and bracelet to order — tailored specifically to you.

Fast Shipping

Orders ship within 1–3 business days from New Jersey. Free standard shipping on all US orders over $75.

Star Seller

Consistently earning 5-star reviews, dispatching on time, and replying quickly to every message. Your experience matters deeply to me.

The Process

01

Stone selection

I hand-select every stone and bead for color consistency, quality, and natural beauty before any piece begins.

02

Hand-stringing

Each bead is individually strung by hand using professional-grade wire or cord, knotted and secured at every accent point.

03

Finishing

Clasps, closures, and accent pieces are added — sterling silver, copper, or gold-filled depending on your chosen style.

04

Packaging

Every piece is packed in a 3.5" kraft gift box, inspection-checked, and shipped with care — ready to gift or keep.

Thank you for joining me on this journey
from bean counter to bead counter.

One beautiful, handcrafted piece at a time. — Lily Juell ♡

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