Beads of Paradise — Local services in New York

The sign outside suggests this is either a Hare Krishna storefront or a first generation head shop. Don't be deceived. Inside is one of the hippest (and hippiest) stores in the Village.

True to their name, they have beads, lots of them, from plastic to semi-precious and in all price ranges. Ditto crystals, minerals, regional handicrafts from Mexico and India, beaded curtains, you name it.

They also have a few thousand holiday ornaments, with an emphasis on cultural icons past and present. Are there elves and Santas, sure. But you'll also find Taylor Swift ornaments, Wizard of Oz/Wicked ornaments. Puppies, cats, birds, Hindi gods, Tim Curry (as Dr. Frank-N-Furter), wica-themed things, Queen Elizabeth and the rest of the royals, manga, the Golden Girls, tacos, Harry Styles, and hypodermic needles. Most are glass and in good taste; some of in decidedly bad taste (I wanted those most of all).

Because it's a little dusty in spots, it still gives a 1970's, "Whole Earth" vibe. Thankfully, the courteous staff (Candace helped me and she was a delight) brings a wholesome and helpful air to the place. I bought a Glinda the Good Witch and a Taylor Swift ornament but expect to go back for a Botox syringe.

If you've read my other reviews (i.e., More and More and John Derian) you know I'm huge a fan of great ornaments. This shop makes a worthy companion to those other two with very little overlap in the products they offer. I wish I'd stumbled in sooner.

Just for good measure, pick up a little Rose Quartz to help get your through the holidays (these are tough times, maybe a crystal will help).

Who is going to love it? Christmas freaks, jewelry people, yogis, fashionistas, drag queens, crafters, and the rest of...

I have always loved Beads of Paradise. No other place has as much of a variety of beads and artifacts from around the world within reach. I recently had a deeply meaningful experience, I worked with Aura to find a vitrine to help make a little shrine for Simba, my cat who passed away last month. I will never forget my experience discovering it and working with Aura. My heart is full when I think about it and it inspires me so much. I will always recommend you check out their store, the prices are fair and you’re always going to come away with something unique. They are so chill and you can explore at your own pace.

Update: 6/17/2025:

Just had another amazing experience here. It made my day to visit and browse. I’m a shy dude and the staff here is so patient and welcoming. I saw Aura again and she helped me find exactly what I was looking for! No request is too small. This is a rare store where you find connections rather than things; it is a significant place that I totally recommend. Check it out, you won’t be...

Here we have found an excellent source of quality semi precious opaque stones and crystals that are seemingly untreated and of excellent value.

The store is full of pre strung strands that can be finished with whatever type of clasp or fastener that you choose to make a personal artistic or decadent styling to express your taste and creativity.

We recommend this store also because of the sales help and respect that they demonstrate for the people that walk through the door.

It is a unique store in Manhattan, and well, a paradise in a paradise for shoppers.

• Tiger Eye • Lapis Lazuli • various spiritual or religious sculptures • and some types of ancient looks such as Byzantine, Kemetic ("Egyptian") African, and so many other wonderful items too many to mention.

Trust me, you will save lots of money to defray the cost of your airline ticket. Remember, you can go broke by saving money if it's not a good investment is the...