Without jewelry, pearls would be nothing but oyster gallstones and treasure chests would contain nothing but dirty back issues of the Economist. Embrace the power of bling with today's Groupon: for $15, you get $30 worth of beads and more at General Bead, located on Minna Street between Seventh and Eighth Streets.

General Beads overflows with brilliant beads, gems, and sparkling rhinestones, patiently waiting to bring dreamed-up craft projects to fruition. Whether looking to create a one-of-a-kind jewelry piece or a beaded taxicab, hand-crafting artists will discover a wide selection of suitable beads and adornments, such as Swarovski crystal rhinestones ($1 for 12 pieces), Czech bugle-seed beads ($5.50 for a hank), and Czech 4mm round beads ($2.75 for 100 pieces). String bold beads and gleaming gems together with a variety of materials, such as gold-plate cable chain ($1.65/ft.), Soft-Flex beading wire ($9.60 for 30 ft.), or tasty cinnamon dental floss. With an attentive and informed staff on hand to answer questions and give advice, bead buffs will have no problem locating the supplies and inspiration needed to create memorable gifts and name-brand counterfeit moccasins.