I am the Fluorite King of Central Vermont. Sometimes our fluorite is disappointing so that is disappointing. Fluorite is very soft so scratches easily. 15 to 16 inch strand, temporarily strung (claspless). Why fluorite? Because: "Fluorite helps clear the mind and heighten mental achievement, whilst increasing the ability to concentrate. Fluorite absorbs negative vibrations. Fluorite increases ones ability to perceive higher levels of reality." That's why. There are about 50 beads on an 8mm strand. Combine all single bead strands on beading.com to get the pricebreaks. These are not excitingly vibrant.