I think to an extent it's the materials, but it's probably because they're so limited in number (right?) while I do think there over priced....just look at them.
Just my 2 cents
It wont be the materials, I estimate about $10 worth of silver in the silver beads and about 8-10 cents of copper in the....copper beads of course.
They are moulded in much the same way as beads costing $10 on some sites so not a lot of labour there once the moulds have been created.
I put the high price down to limited production and a market that is willing to pay the asking prices.
To me they do not represent any value at $200 for a bead given the factors above.
The paint that goes into an oil painting doesn't cost much....
The paint that goes into an oil painting doesn't cost much....