I am a jeweler/designer living in New York City, and I first came into Beads of Paradise several months ago. I've been coming back ever since. The customer service was great, and the overall quality of the inventory is really amazing--- quite superior to what you might find searching through Sixth Ave/Midtown, not to mention that much of their inventory can only be found there since it is imported either specifically through the store's owners or from independent vendors. The only downside is that the prices can be expensive, but that is due to the quality of the beads and makes it worth it! Also, if there is something they don't have, the staff will personally try to find it for you elsewhere. They carry already finished jewelry from all over the world (Africa, Indonesia...great gifts!) and even do repairs or custom stringing/wire wrapping with stones/beads you already have. I am really happy I walked into this store...it's very unique. Definitely check it out.

I visited New York on vacation last month, and being a long-time jewelry-maker, I just had to check out the NY bead scene. I assumed Beads of Paradise would be just beads (as the name sounds) but BOY was I wrong! They carry handbags, dolls, antiques, and other gifts. The sales associates were very sweet and helpful and not at all pushy. They have a great website too and shipped me something I forgot to pick up. Truly a New York gem! =)