Beads that I can't use...

I've had this bead for maybe 20 years, and it was old when I got it. I was told it's a Russian Blue bead. It's made of cobalt glass.


I love the stories behind beads, I think it adds to their value. I have a cigar box full of receipts and cards that I got when I bought some of my more special beads, but they aren't with the beads, and some of them just have the date and cost, but no artist/vendor name or description. And here I thought I was documenting my collection by saving all the receipts!


I'm hoping to find out more about some of the beads I have. If you have more information about any of my beads will you please correct or add to my knowledge?