I read Kandice K.'s review today - re: Alexander's Bead Store. I purchased a very expensive strand of "Green Turquoise" from Alexanders about five years ago. I was new to jewelry making...so I believed him when he said that it was real. After all - it was under the counter....I made a lovely necklace and wore it to another bead store - the owner of the store started chatting with me and I discovered that I had purchased a dyed stone - made to look like Turquiose. I went to several other stores and gem shops to validate the authenticity of the stones....I was told that Alexanders is known in the business as being unethical in the product they sell. Every sale is a final sale and you cannot return anything....Needless to say...I will never set foot in that store again. read more

I remember the first time I shopped At Alexander's. It was a rainy January afternoon, already dark, and I walked into this little treasure. The store has moved since then to a larger location and is now a large treasure box. As I browse the semi-precious stones in the front case I always feel so fortunate that there is a store selling such a large variety of beads, findings and other treasures near my house. My favorite things are spendy, those beautifully faceted semi-precious stones, but one can always find some strand that will work for the piece you have in mind. The staff is helpful in presenting options for purchase and are patient while you ponder the selections. At times when I have asked about when new items are expected to arrive, I have been called by the staff to let me know they have arrived. read more

The last time I came in here was the last time I will give these people money. I've gone here several times, since I live just blocks away, and I've spent probably now hundreds of dollars of my hard-earned cash on their middling selection of gems and beads. I don't understand how you can have such horrible service, treat paying customers like they're criminals, and still be in business. It seems like every time I go in this store, coincidentally the staff start whining about shoplifting and glancing in my direction. The nerve. Almost all of my friends who have shopped here that are under 30 have had similar experiences. It's a wonder such blatant ageism and petty discrimination manages to have a leg to stand on. The clerk that I asked for assistance-- a plump blonde woman, made it seem like I was pulling teeth and couldn't be bothered to appear the least bit helpful or even smile. I asked if they had any other sizes of chips in the stone I was looking for, she told me no, didn't offer alternatives or even offer to look-- just no. Incidentally, I found the other size on my own about one isle over less than five minutes later. I asked if they had any other cuts of laboradite, and again, she told me no. Surprise, there's an entire section of laboradite she couldn't be bothered to show me behind the counter. The signage posted around the store is mean-spirited and rude at best. All of the precious metals and gems are kept in cases, for good reason, but you can forget about asking them to pull anything out for you to look at-- they'd rather duct-tape your arm to the glass than let you touch anything. One reviewer even told them about their terrible feedback-- their purported response amazed me. No one wants you to pay (last I checked, yelp and google were totally free) to have good reviews, Alexander's-- you earn those. By not being overgrown highschoolers. It's pretty simple. Unfortunately, you couldn't even manage that. I spend a lot of money on these sorts of things, but I won't be spending it here anymore. You don't seem to want it from me. I'll be going up the street to bead world and online. read more

Great help on a project that I needed to complete. Beautiful gems in bead form.

I'm a bit perplexed by the bad reviews. I visited Alexander's this afternoon and had a wonderful experience. Not only was I left to shop in peace and take my time, I was given really useful information for completing my project. The prices were very fair. One of the women (owner?) and I had a great time comparing our Value Village outfits. I'd definitely return and shop again. read more

I went to Alexander's for the first time yesterday and had a ball. The proprietors were helpful and conversational. There are only a handful of good bead shops in Seattle and they are all completely different in their offerings. Alexander's offers the semi-precious and stone beads I always look for. I love crystals (Swarovski), too, so I go to the other shops for those. I really don't understand the previous, and very old, negative comments about Alexander's. My experience was 180 degrees opposite so I suspect the negative reviews had a nefarious purpose. read more

Lovely selection and products HOWEVER I like many inhabitants of Seattle was homeless and living out of a backpack (as well as my boyfriend) the last time we went to this store and felt many instances of employees breathing down our neck while shopping, asking strange question that sounded directed towards how much money we were planning on spending, as well as ultimately being told the store was closing early and to pay for what we had up front immediately. We also left our backpacks up front while shopping, bought a good amount of rocks, and also would have bought more if they hadn't told us to leave! We would never steal, and we have also heard of them doing this same thing to multiple of our friends, one person even told me she experienced this happening three days in a row and other people in the store were not asked to leave while her, her partner, and another Hispanic woman were all asked to go due to the store "closing early". Fuck your bullshit, Alexander's. Answer my email next time. read more

This is by far my favorite place in Seattle to shop for beads! They have a HUGE selection of incredibly priced gem stones by the strand, which is SO much more cost effective than purchasing them individually like I have to do at some other stores. What I enjoy the most is that they are constantly updating their inventory because the owners import several times a year, so there are always pretty new things to look at. Also If you are a sucker for old ethnic jewelry, this is definitely the place to go because they have an incredible selection of pieces from Africa, Tibet, China, etc. Findings: If you are new to the store and are looking for findings on the wall, it may seem as though the selction is small, but just ask one of the staff and they will happily show you the extensive collection of sterling silver findings in the case. The Chain selection is also incredible and some of the best prices I have found. Staff: The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about their products. When I first started making jewelry, they set me on exactly the right track with supplies and even showed me how to use crimp beads and helped me out when i got stuck with wire wrapping. I am confused about some of the negative reviews of the staff and owners, because they have never been anything but kind to me... but i guess in retail nice people can sometimes become the target of unfriendly customers. Parking on Roosevelt is metered, so i usually try to find parking along the side streets, but if you must park right in front, be aware that the meter maids in this neighboorhood are harsh. This is a store with unique and high quality merchandise so if you are a bead-hound and are willing to get a little creative, this is definitely the place for you!!! I suggest coming with project ideas in mind so as not to get completely overwhelmed by the inventory, and so the staff can give you more specific guidance. read more

When I'm in the market for stand-out, amazing, gemstones, I RUN down to this beadstore. They have some of the best cut gemstones that I have seen ANYWHERE. If I need findings, I will go elsewhere or shop online. In response to some other reviewer's comments, I have seen the cold shoulder side from employees, as well as the over the top excellent customer service. It may surprise some of you, but honestly, the BEST service I get is from Sam (the owner), himself. Anytime I come in, he has always been helpful and is always bringing out the the rare stuff that he has just brought back from one of his trips to show me! Last time I was in, he spent so much time showing me beautiful stones that I ended up with a parking ticket because time just seemed to fly! But, yes, I will say, the first few times I was in, there wasn't any warm greetings at the door, nor offer of assistance. Now, to address the reviewer who is unhappy with being watched on camera.... I guess you don't go into grocery chains or banks either? As a business owner, I'm completely understanding of why Sam should want to be able to keep an eye on his store - Especially while out of town! Unless you are doing something wrong, you shouldn't mind being on video either. The best way to prosecute a shoplifter is to have it on camera! So, I love Alexander's for: Rare beads, Beautiful faceting on the stones, and new unusal stuff that Sam brings back from his many buying trips (which they will even email you to let you know when Sam has returned and what goodies he brought with him!) Dislikes: Parking tickets (my fault for not knowing better that I'd get lost in gemstone heaven in there again), some cold shoulders from some employees (then again, I hate being pestered by sales staff even MORE, so.....) read more

I am literally in the store as I type this review, because this will be the last time I ever cross the threshold. I've put up with the notoriously awful customer service at this store because yes, the prices are good. But the more jewelry I make, the more I realize that cheap prices also imply cheap materials and you without a doubt get exactly what you pay for here: next to nothing. I leave this store feeling like I've been the victim of a very, very bad joke every time I come. As I type this, the store owner is staring at me unabashedly, expecting me to steal something (I've spent hundreds of dollars at Alexander's - does my comparing strands to find the least damaged ones really look like theft?), and she's vocally insulting me and other customers. I have never received such awful service at any bead store ever, and I've been making jewelry professionally for eight years. I am not new to this rodeo. You can't use a reseller's permit with a purchase less than $20, you can't use a credit card with under a $5 purchase. When the employees are asked a question they don't know the answer to, they don't ask anyone else, they don't google, nothing. Alexander's has no interest in creating positive relationships with their customers. I can't even begin to put into words how unbelievable these women are. Avoid this store as though the dust that will undoubtably cover your fingers after touching their dirty stones was anthrax. By the way - those cheap charms? Their supplier is a warehouse on etsy, and you can get them for even less, without having to deal with the outrageous service. Twelve hours since the original draft of this review, and if anything, I'm even more angry. Never again. Never. read more

I used to love the store and their selection of beads and ethnic jewelry, but can't go back, they're the rudest people I've met in Seattle. It felt like they were all bothered by costumers, why open a business then? read more

I wanted to post this as a tip, but apparently it's too long, oh well: If you prefer to do your shopping online, Alexanders does have a pretty rocking ;) eBay site at http://www.ebay.com/usr/savars23tq. It's pretty new so keep checking for new items. But, personally I like the hands-on experience of visiting the shop. If you're serious about rocks and/or you want the best quality stone beads for your jewelry projects, it's pretty hard to beat Alexanders. Just remember, as you shop around for these types of items, you will always get what you pay for - if you're looking for cheap Chinese imitations , this ain't the place. It's nothing but the best! I get more comments on my jewelry made from Alexander's stones than I would have ever imagined. I'm a designer and painter by trade and I get more requests for jewelry than artwork simply because folks have seen the jewelry I've made for myself with these amazing beads. read more

I would give minus if I could. I really needed to get a clear crystal- know exactly what I needed. I had no choice but going with my 2 and 4 yrs old girls, so I put the little one in carrier and the other by my side. The woman behind counter didn't even look at us and kept talking on her cell phone, her personal thing. We waited in front of the section of the counter where there are the crystals we needed. She finally finished phone call, but not even look at us. Then my 4 year old run one aisle, then this woman screened "she ant run there!!!" " oh sorry, but if you can help us we will be out of the store" " oh you don't understand, I have a grand daughter at that age.... blah blah blah". We came to spend our money for what we wanted. The lady works there didn't even do anything she was supposed to do, instead giving me the lecture like she knows my daughter better than I do. Left right away with horrible feeling and anger inside of me, without accomplish what I needed. Don't go there. Void supporting this kind of business!!! read more

I went in today looking for semi-precious stones and sterling components, and now I remember why I stopped shopping here several years ago. The people who work in this shop are beyond unfriendly and completely unhelpful, almost blatantly rude. When I asked a brief question and got a sigh and a half eye-roll, I left and went a couple miles away to Fusion beads, where I received awesome service and hands on help. I don't care how great Alexander's selection is, I won't be back. read more

The prices here are some of the best in Seattle. While they don't seem to have a lot of findings, they certainly have a lot of great beads.

I love beads. I love bead stores. I do not like this place. They just don't have a good vibe. They do have ALOT of stuff, but part of beading is walking around picking up things, seeing how things go together, basically playing with the beads-- I just couldn't get into the vibe here. I felt that I was bothering the owner (yes it was the owner that was the rudest) by asking to see things behind the counter. Now, I spend a fair amount of time and money in bead stores-- its not like I was asking to look at a $5 strand of glass beads. Go up the street to Bead World-- those people rock (pun intended)! read more

I really WANT to give this place a good review. It's huge, and I could spend days digging through their selection, thinking about a project or envisioning all sorts of new ones. But the thing is I can't spend days, hours, or even more than a few minutes, because of their "no strollers" policy. Try browsing through thousands of tiny choking hazards with one hand while you try to keep a two-year-old "attended and under control at all times" (as the signs shout as you walk in the door) with the other. Here's a tip for whoever's making the rules: stroller straps do a surpisingly effective job of keeping little hands out of bead bins, so big hands can do a much more important job--handing over the debit card. read more

Whether I spend a lot or very little I have always found every single person at Alexander's to be more than helpful every time and if too busy to help they have told me a time to come get free help. The family in particular is very kind, interested in what you need and has a rare collection of varied price ranges that are more than enticing. I have been coming there for at least 20 years when the mood hits and have always felt happy I did. read more

I wasn't sure what to expect after reading several negative reviews of Alexander's on Yelp. Alexander's has an incredible stock of semi-precious stones. I do bead embroidery and use smaller sized beads, so much of their stock was larger than the scale I use, but I found way too many beautiful beads. I experienced good service with a sweet and non-condescending attitude, and witnessed staff being helpful to 2 other shoppers during the short time it took me to spend my daily bead budget there. When they didn't have what I was looking for (24K Delicas), they referred me to Fusion Beads (and Fusion did have them). Now that's neighborly! I'd heartily recommend them. read more

I know what people are saying when they talk about the staff here seeming rude. But honestly, I don't think they mean to be. This place is often really busy..and I have seen the staff go out of their way to be helpful. Sometimes they spend lots of time with me answering all my questions. Sometimes they don't acknowledge me being in the store until I'm ready to check out. Regardless, they are very knowledgeable and when they are not slammed or in the process of recovering from being slammed, they are helpful. Or maybe I'm predisposed to give them the benefit of the doubt because I don't really care if they talk to me or not. I like to be left alone to browse the GIGNORMOUS selection here. They do have tons and tons to see. That being said, their prices are high. Their nicer beads really do have a price tag that can make purchases hard to justify (esp. if you are the type that ever make it to the bead shows.) But I really like their selection of funky and unusual antique beads in the back counters. They also carry all the basic beading staples at comparable prices. And finally, Andrea Savar's creations on display in the store are truly, truly beautiful. Sometimes I just come in to check them out. She teaches classes here, too. read more

This store's selection of gemstones is phenomenal! The staff was knowledgeable about the gemstones they had and were able to answer my questions. I will definitely go back! read more

I too continue to patronize Alexanders but not happily. They do have some good deals from time to time. Now their selection is shifting to more gems, fewer beads. The staff is civil at best, not helpful, often snippy. I have been overcharged on several occasions, once by one of the owners. So you might want to carefully check your receipt as you check out. read more

i haven't been to Alexander's in a while, but have been thinking about going back, since i know they carry alot of ethnic and tribal findings...i can see from the numerous reviews that my reason for having not been there in so long still remains the same! my experience in the past has been that they were rude and condescending and treated me like a common criminal. i am hesitant to go back since it seems, despite the terrible reviews, they still haven't changed! they should rethink their ways! with internet shopping you don't have to worry about rude customer service....maybe i'll just pay the extra shipping and keep my vow of not giving them my hard earned money! read more

For me, 3 stars is a positive review. If I could break it down, I'd give them 5 stars for selection, 3 stars for the wide range of prices, and probably 2 stars for ambiance. 3 stars for service because I've never had a problem but also haven't expected anything special. I guess I get the range of reviews I'm reading here--they certainly reflect what I've heard from jewelry-making acquaintances for years. Maybe I'm not particularly sensitive to vibes, or prefer to explore on my own, but I've never felt ignored or insulted, have always had a perfectly normal experience there. As a friend of someone who owns a small bead store, I know that shoplifting is a *huge* problem in these types of stores, so I cut them a little slack on the cameras. I'm a well-rounded jewelry maker, stringing, wire work, metal work. I gravitated to natural stone & gems from the get-go, so Alexanders was a little nirvana when I first started out. Later I went there for the stuff behind glass, not just for the quality but because the types of stones & cuts I found there were absolutely unique in the Seattle area. For several years I'd make a semi-annual trek down there to check out the new stuff just off the boat from their buying trips. More than once I dropped $1K+ in an afternoon for things I'd never seen and never would see in any other local bead store or gem shows. I paid for this uniqueness--but for the most part it was worth it (sometimes I bought things that I loved but were too expensive for my customer base). During these sessions I'd usually have the undivided attention of one person, particularly nice when it was one of the two owners because I liked to hear the back stories behind the acquisitions. I no longer do this, but that's because I do my own buying trips these days. Now I go to Alexanders if I need inexpensive staples, such as small stones to use as accent beads, black onyx, pearls, etc., or if I need something special quickly for a custom job. I've never had a particular problem with broken stones (they're an occasional fact of life). There's a range in quality that seems to be priced appropriately but it also helps to know what you're looking at. I never looked at their glass or metal stuff (other than sterling, where again I've found some unique stuff) or their jewelry making supply stuff, so can't review. read more

Great selection of inexpensive bead strands. Man who owns the store is very helpful and has great knowledge to share.

I live a block from Alexander's Bead Bazaar. After half a dozen visits, I now drive elsewhere for all supplies. Two of the times I shopped there the male owner glared at me as I entered in a hostile, aggressive manner. (All I'd done was walk through the doorway.) Twice he came out from the back while I was shopping and I witnessed his rudeness to other shoppers. Perhaps he thinks he is deterring shoplifting, but I was appalled at his lack of courtesy. Nothing they stock is so unique that it cannot be obtained elsewhere. Other reviews mention that one might shop elsewhere if they want their "ass kissed." I shop elsewhere because I am uncomfortable with the outright rudeness and lack of respect showed by the owners. read more

Rudest employees I have ever encountered in Seattle. Both ladies seemed annoyed that I had questions and were condescending with their answers. They gossiped abot customers in front of me while stuffing themselves with potato chips. Tacky. Will go to the bead store up the road from here on out. Awful, awful customer service. Don't waste a dime there. read more

Giving them one star would be overly gracious. I have been in this store a few times trying to find a day when someone isn't horribly rude. Never going to happen. All I have to say is NEVER go here. I went in with my sister because we both love beads and she was visiting i took her to all the bead stores as a treat and upon entering we were first of all not greeted by anything but a glance and then I was texting my boyfriend and the lady behind the counter (not well dressed, not at all well kept in any fashion) said "There is no taking pictures in this store". There is nothing to photograph my dear because your sellection sucks to begin with. Second of all I asked if there was a restroom, and she said "no" so i asked if she knew where one was and she pointed to the door... So yeah I really really dont like this store. read more

The last time I was in this store, I asked to see some pearls from behind the counter. It was almost as if I had asked to see an employee naked. I haven't been back since. They had a good selection, but I have no interest in spending money at a store where I was treated so poorly. read more

I am afraid I have not enjoyed my experiences here. I tried so many times to ignore the strangeness that seems to plague this store. They just seem like they wish you weren't shopping there. Every store that I frequent to buy various art mediums has a creative & welcoming staff, that can answer questions and facilitate an experience for the artistic process of choosing materials, in some small way. That place is weird. Even though they have exactly what I need for my my wedding jewelry, for both myself and the gals, I have decided I don't want to visit them anymore. They are all consistently uninviting and just bizzare. Alexander's Bazaar indeed. read more

I shop for beads quite often and look forward to my trips to Seattle for the great shopping. Alexander's is always one of my first stops. There is an enormous selection at all price levels. The staff is friendly and interesting. Not sure why other reviewers didn't experience this. I find more variety there along with the best selection of quality stones. I like the mineral specimens and ethnic antiquities as well. Be prepared to find parking where you can stay anchored for a while. You will want to plan a long visit because the store is so big and the stock so diverse. read more

went in during April/2018 and there were 2 helpful ladies in the store. one is the store owner, the other a knowledgable 20-something clerk. both are knowledged in the stones and very helpful. the array of stones they offer is simply amazing....decadent eye candy. will be back again. they indicated they are transitioning to an online store by end of 2018. Ebay - World Treasure Brokers (savars23tq ). read more

So I've been going here for a few years. They have been very rude but are gradually getting nicer probably because I am dropping cash there. I am mostly interested in gemstone beads. One thing to know is that they do NOT exchange or CARE if the gemstones are cracked etc. They have a huge selection of gemstones, but a lot of them are cracked and scratched etc. it's funny, they pull a strand of citrine and say look how beatiful these are. "Hello, did some drag them across the cement or what" YOu can find good stuff there, you just have to pick and choose. They do hover over you and it's freakin annoying. The owners are snotty and the husband is definitely rude if you've had any run ins with him. The brunette hovers over you and has attitude and the blonde is nice, but she is phony. These people have no idea what customer service is and if they are reading this they should have a company meeting, but hey I'm still going there right? So my word to you is this: know what you are looking for, be kind, ask questions and KNOW that some of the gemstone strands are really jacked. They do have great clear quartz, citrine, mystic quartz etc etc. They also have good priced chain sterling silver and gold fill. Fusion beads is great, but they don't have the same gemstone collection! read more

I'm from New Mexico and looking forward to visiting Alexander's in a couple of weeks...last Christmas season when I visited I was amazed at the selection and the knowledgeable, courteous staff at the shop. In reading through these reviews it must have something to do with the kind of customer you are as to how you are treated because there definitely is a wide variety of opinions. I just say visit the shop for yourself, make your purchase and don't expect to create a long lasting relationship with the owners. read more

I have to agree with some of the other reviewers: the staff here is rude. The entire time I was there, they gossiped with each other behind the counter about how annoying and awful their customers are. The other people who came in were treated curtly. I am an experienced amature jewelry maker, but they wouldn't know that, since they didn't strike up any kind of conversation with me, ask me if I needed help or what I was working on. I love their selection, and when it comes to natural stones, they can't be beat, but I heard at least 10 blatantly negative remarks from the staff and zero positive ones. Between that and the "no returns, no exchanges" sign, I can't shake the yucky feeling this store gave me. read more

I tried to love this store because the selection is nice but the people who work there are very rude and crass! I felt like throwing my bag of goods back at her! This one girl in particular (long auburn hair) was so condescending and rude I'm like babe - you work at a bead store! Dealing with staff like that makes it totally not worth going there anymore. What a waste of time. read more

The owners of this store do not like or trust their customers. They are very unfriendly even if you have no questions or make no requests of them. At first I thought maybe someone was having a bad day but no, they have been rude and insulting every time I've been in. I can't express enough the bad vibe these people give off. I won't set foot in this store anymore. I spend my money at Bead World or Fusion Beads. read more

My experience shopping here was great. I see what other reviews are saying about the friendliness of the staff and owner, though it felt like an icy first few minutes of shopping, both staff people warmed up immensely and ended up going above and beyond; helping me choose my pieces, and then actually assembling two necklaces with clasps for me. I was really pleased to not have to buy the tools and struggle with it at home, they were great to us. The owner travels around the world to bring back these beads. I was really inspired by the collection and the knowledge of the owner. I went home with a restrung family charm necklace and a Tibetan infinity knot pendant on a new gold chain that I picked out on the spot. They were playing Nina Simone, it was a bit dark and mysterious, crystals and bone beads and ornate carved doors from Afghanistan, the staff were quirky and interesting and it was just an all around cool experience. read more

i have never had a pleasant interaction with the owners. whereas the owners of the competition, for instance, beadworld or fusion beads,couldn't be nicer or more helpful. read more

I am pretty shocked at all of the reviews I see here because of all the times I've visited this shop I've never been treated rudely. Sure, they aren't the model of customer service, but I don't like over-the-top customer service, either. I like to search for what I am looking for and I usually don't like being bothered while I look. Anyway, I recently went in to just have a look at their selection of rocks and gemstones, and as they always have, they had an awesome selection and really good prices. (Probably the best I've seen for strings of quality gemstones, agates, and pearls). I even took my boyfriend, who (reluctantly) agreed to come, and even HE was impressed by the selection and prices. I went in not intending to spend anything, and walked out with some beautiful polished agate beads and a woven braid of freshwater pearls that I paid only 8.50 for! But this is where I was really impressed - I purchased this braid intending to leave it as such, and just make a necklace out of it. The gentleman behind the counter asked me if I was going to be taking it apart and when I told him no, he warned me to not cut it or else I risk losing the entire braid. That's exactly what I would have done when I had returned home, but I am really glad he told me. He showed me a special clasp I could use to make the necklace, and how to attach it so I don't cut the braid and for that I was really appreciative. There was no pressure to buy the clasp, but I ended up doing so, paying only 4.50 (it is a nice S-shaped clasp, not cheap looking) and for 12.50 plus tax, I have a beautiful braided freshwater pearl necklace. What's more, a close friend of mine who will be getting married next year saw the necklace and asked me to make them for the girls in her wedding party. So, definitely, will be going back to Alexander's soon!! read more