What is Tumbling?
Tumbling is done in a rock tumbler with a very fine grit and a bit of water and soap. The beads are tumbled to create a matte finish. This is similar to acid etching, but the final result is a much softer etching. In my opinion, beads that are tumbled do not catch as much fuzz and dirt from whatever they rub up against. They would have more of a ‘beach glass’ look. When beads are tumbled to get a matte finish rather than in an acid bath, any crevices or spots next to raised glass will stay glossy. You can see examples in my amber woven beads and wavy disc beads (see the difference in the 2 beads in the front).
