BuckyBalls Rare Earth Magnetic Desktoy
Super-strong magnetic desktoy with hundreds of uses.
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BuckyBalls Magnetic Desktoy — Nickel (125 balls)
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BuckyBalls Magnetic Desktoy — Nickel (216 balls)
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BuckyBalls Magnetic Desktoy — Black (216 balls)
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BuckyBalls Magnetic Desktoy — Gold (216 balls)
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BuckyBalls Magnetic Desktoy — Big Book of Bucky
Overview
Check out our replacement for BuckyBalls!
It's a desktoy. It's a stress reliever. It's a super-strong magnet. Snap, pull, mold, squeeze, and construct an endless variety of shapes with the BuckyBalls Magnetic Desktoy, a set of super-strong, rare earth neodymium magnetic spheres.
With BuckyBalls, you can create cool shapes like cubes, cylinders, and pyramids. You can even play "darts" on your refrigerator. Or just use them as small, but strong magnets for displaying photos or holding papers.
Available in several styles: Sidekick (125 nickel spheres), Original (216 nickel spheres), Executive Gold (216 spheres), and Executive Black (216 spheres).
For people who like:
Features & specs
- Made from neodymium rare-earth magnets
- Super Strong - one BuckyBall can hold a half-pound wrench
- Ages: Adults only (Keep away from all children)
- Includes a plastic carrying case
- Two sizes: 125 magnets ("Sidekick") or 216 magnets ("Full")
- Full sizes available in nickel, black nickel, and gold
- Sidekick available in nickel
You may also like:
An incredibly addictive desktoy
You can make puzzles, structures, games, patterns, shapes, and even stick stuff to the fridge with BuckyBalls.
Check out the short demo videos below to see a few of the designs and structures you can create with BuckyBalls.
BuckyBalls are mighty strong magnets!
These diminutive magnets are incredibly strong. In fact, we dangled a half-pound wrench by a single 5mm diameter BuckyBall.
So, feel free to use a few of the magnets in your BuckyBalls cube to hold some papers to a filing cabinet or stick a photo on the fridge -- BuckyBalls can handle the load.
A single BuckyBall is strong enough to hold a half-pound wrench.
(OK, three BuckyBalls. We had to hold on to something!)
Sets include 125 or 216 rare earth magnets
BuckyBall sets are available in two sizes: 125 spheres (aka "Sidekick") or 216 spheres. All BuckyBalls are 5mm in diameter.
You'll be amazed at how a simple string of spherical magnets can provide so many hours of fun. Simply put, the BuckyBalls Magnetic Desktoy is great for fidgeting.
Each full size set includes 216 rare earth BuckyBall magnets.
The BuckyBalls Sidekick includes 125 spheres.
Challenge yourself to discover cool shapes and designs
Using simple patterns, you can create interesting and fun structures with BuckyBalls, from the classic BuckyBalls cube to the more difficult shapes pictured below.
Unlike the Rubik's cube (whose puzzle borders on torture), unlocking the secret behind these structures is challenging, yet attainable.
Using BuckyBalls, you can create fun and interesting designs.
There are tons of practical uses, too!
In addition to the "play" factor of BuckyBalls, don't forget about their super-usefulness. Each of the magnets is strong enough to hold 8 pieces of paper to a standard filing cabinet (which is probably a little more practical than holding a half-pound wrench).
You can also create a unique business card holder or pen & pencil caddy using BuckyBalls. Of course, there are hundreds more applications, but at some point we must cut the cord and let you uncover more uses on your own.
Hold paper to a filing cabinet, create a unique business card holder, or build a utensil caddy with BuckyBalls magnets.
Convenient carrying case for on-the-go BuckyBallin'
In case you were wondering, "BuckyBallin'" is a verb and if its definition wasn't obvious, it is defined as, "to show off your vast affluence and wealth through your mastery of BuckyBall tricks".
Oh, almost forgot - each complete set of BuckyBalls comes with an orange plastic carrying case.
Each set of BuckyBalls comes with a free plastic carrying case.
Available in several styles including black and gold!
BuckyBalls are available in two sizes: 125 and 216 magnets.
The full size sets (216 magnets) are available in the "original" nickel as well as two "executive" editions: black and gold. Black BuckyBalls feature rare black nickel plating, and Gold BuckyBalls are plated with real gold. Trés cool.
The "original" BuckyBalls (both full size and Sidekick) feature nickel plating and appear silver in hue.
Choose from original, black, and gold versions of the BuckyBalls Magnetic Desktoy.
Master the Cube with the Big Book of Bucky
Not sure where to begin with your fresh set of BuckyBalls? Fret not! The Big Book of Bucky will have you BuckyBallin' in no time.
The 77-page book is packed with tips, tricks, inspiring photos from master BuckyBallers, and step-by-step instruction.
Click the image below to view a PDF featuring a few sample pages from the book.
Master shapes and structures with the Big Book of Bucky.
This product has been discontinued. Frown face!
Sorry, but this item is no longer available for purchase.
Burning Questions: You Ask and We Answer
Burning Questions: You ask and we answer!
Your questions that have been answered by the Vat19.com staff:
Does transportation by air require additional paperwork like Dangerous Goods Inspection list. I believe Magnetic Material needs to be declared ?
Small consumer shipments of BuckyBalls do not require any paperwork. It is only very large bulk shipments that require inspection.
I swallowed one. Will it ever come out?
It's possible that it may find its way through your system and, well, out. But these are very strong magnets, so if you swallow one (or more), seek medical attention.
Okay... my dog eats anything and it seems very likely that when I play with them, eventually a few will fall on the floor and my dog will devour them. Will this cause harm to my dog?
Yes, quite possibly. These are very strong magnets and when swallowed, they can attract each other in the digestive system, causing perforations and/or blockage in the intestines. If you suspect that your dog has swallowed BuckyBalls, take it to the vet immediately.
I used to take the magnets out of my Magnetix toys and make face piercings out of them. Are these magnets too strong to put between your skin? As in if you do, will it hurt?
It is safe to use BuckyBalls to create fake "piercings". I actually tried it on my earlobe and did feel a little bit of discomfort. Remember that these are very strong magnets! Please also remember to keep them away from your mouth, as accidentally swallowing them could mean trouble. So, no lip or tongue "piercings".
what is one of the least fun and most fun things you can do with bucky balls ?
The least fun thing you can do with BuckyBalls is not play with them! One of the most fun things you can do with them is build a really cool shape that perhaps no one else has ever built. Playing fridge darts (check out the video) is also pretty fun.
do they still come in the jars or do they come in the container that is showed
The glass jar packaging was discontinued. They now come packaged as shown on the product page.
What is the best way to clean buckyballs? Rubbing alcohol? solvent? soap and water?
We recommend just using a damp cloth to remove any residue. Just make sure you dry off the BuckyBalls afterwards, as excess exposure to water may result in rust.
Can I use buckyballs as a pen?
BuckyBalls do not contain ink, so no.
do you ship around the wourld cous i live in iceland
Yes, we ship worldwide.
Can u get buckballs to float?
Maybe if you put them on a tiny little raft. BuckyBalls do not float on their own.
If i swallowed a very strong magnet (I WOULD NEVER DO SOMETHING SO STUPID I AM ASKING OUT OF CURIOSITY)would metal things stick to you? Would the magnetic connection penetrate your stomach wall?
Trust us, you would NOT want the magnetic connection to penetrate your stomach wall. This would likely result in perforations or blockage in your intestines. And we have a feeling that would hurt.
some of the triangles i make repel other triangles on all sides and won't bond with other triangles. what is going on?
Without getting very scientific (because I'm not smart enough to), all magnets have two different poles - one north and one south. The north pole of a magnet will attract only the south pole of another magnet; it will repel the other magnet's north pole. It is magnetic polarity that is causing you trouble with your BuckyBall triangles. Try reorienting the triangle.
Can you make HOLLOW shapes out of BuckyBalls? (BTW, I love the name xD)
Sure. For example, you can make a square box.
how can i clean my buckyballs?
It kind of depends what's on the BuckyBalls. To simply polish them up, you can just use a soft cloth. If you've gotten a little more grit on them somehow, try a damp cloth, but make sure you dry off the BuckyBalls afterward.
Is this product available for shipping to other countries? For example: Singapore (South-East Asia)
Yes, Vat19 ships worldwide.
I heard that T.V.'s Scott Bakula is a huge buckuballs fan and that he often gives them as gifts. Is this true? Are there any plans for celebrity endorsement? Rip Taylor would be PERFECT.
We were not aware that Scott Bakula was such a huge fan of BuckyBalls! There are currently no plans for celeb endorsements, but thanks for letting us know.
are buckyballs 6 mm?
Each BuckyBall is 5mm in diameter.
I bought a set 5 days ago. They were strong when I got them, but now I cant pull them from a clump to a string without it detaching. I haven't done anything extreme to them. Any ideas?
It's very unlikely that the BuckyBalls have lost their magnetism; it takes years and years for any sort of small decrease in magnet strength to occur. Magnets, especially strong ones like BuckyBalls, can move and behave in funny ways. It takes a bit of practice to get them to behave the way you want them to. Keep on BuckyBallin' and you'll get the hang of it soon!
Will bucky balls make your hands smell because they're made of metal?
You may notice a slight metal smell on your hands after playing with BuckyBalls for a while, but it's nothing a little soap can't handle.
I see answers about cleaning them, but I dropped my buckyballs in the sand and there are tiny grains of metallic sand/dust/whatever that are not coming off no matter how hard I wipe them. Ideas?
From what I've read, some sand contains magnetic grains called magnetite, or "black sand". This is probably what is sticking to the BuckyBalls. Unfortunately, I don't believe there is an easy way to get it off, especially since BuckyBalls are so strong. Perhaps you could use another magnet to try and attract the sand off?
Are buckyballs dishwasher safe?
No, do not put BuckyBalls in your dishwasher.
Someone has claimed that BuckyBalls "are leaving a blueish/gray stain under my fingernails". Is this a problem with the coating? Is it a health risk?
We have not heard of any instances of skin discoloration with the use of BuckyBalls. There is a polish on the balls that could possibly cause a slight discoloration on fingertips, but again we have not heard any complaints of this. However, if the plating on any single magnet should happen to break, the ball should be thrown out.
can you get at a comesarie
We're not aware of any brick-and-mortar stores that carry the BuckyBalls Magnetic Toy.
Aren't buckyballs carbon-based spheres having nothing to do with neodymium and having no magnetic properties?
In the scientific world, yes, buckyballs are spherical fullerenes, or molecules formed entirely of carbon. In Vat19 world, BuckyBalls are spherical magnets that make up one incredibly addictive toy. Much more fun than carbon molecules, if you ask us.
Can you De-Magnetize a Buckyballs by using it for a LONG period of time?
The manufacturer tells us that magnets do lose strength, but only after a very, very long period of time. And the losses over time are minimal. Neodymium (what BuckyBalls are made of) tends to lose only about 1% of its magnetism over a 10 year period. There are certain factors such as extreme heat and radiation that may cause that loss to accelerate, but playing with them too much should not have an effect.
can i put buckyballs through airport security?
BuckyBalls are not hazardous materials, and so far the manufacturer has not had or heard of any problems with airport security. However, we cannot guarantee smooth sailing through airports and customs.
I assume the 216 is enough to make the ball, right? Also, what are the balls coated with?
Yes, you can make a perfect 6x6x6 cube with all 216 magnets in the Full set, or a 5x5x5 cube with all 125 magnets in the Sidekick Set. The Original Full and Sidekick Sets are coated with nickel. The Executive Black Full Set is coated with rare black nickel, and the Executive Gold Full Set is coated with gold.
If BuckyBalls get too close to, say, a computer / television screen, would it affect it in any way?
BuckyBalls are Neodymium magnets, which are very strong. So yes, if you get them too close to a computer monitor or television screen, they could cause distortion or discoloration. It may be possible to correct this if your monitor or television screen has a built-in degaussing function. Your best bet (and our recommendation): keep BuckyBalls away from electronic devices, including computer monitors and televisions.
Could I paint them? If so, with what? (Acrylic, oil, watercolour, sharpies?) Is it possible for paint to weaken them?
We suppose you could paint them, but unfortunately neither we nor the manufacturer have a recommendation as to which medium is the best. The manufacturer says that painting or covering the BuckyBalls in any way will likely weaken the magnetism a bit, as there would be a layer between the magnet and the surface you are sticking it to.
Do buckyballs require any special training or licensing?
Nope!
OK, so anytime I want my to buy something online, I have to ask my parents (obviously) but I have to keep annoying them for about 5 weeks! I need tips on how to convince them!
Tell them that BuckyBalls are an educational toy (because they are). They're mentally stimulating and will improve your concentration (also true). They are also an incredibly fun toy (but you don't have to tell them that part).
What grade are these? And the actual dia of em?
The BuckyBall magnets are grade N35, and each sphere is 5mm in diameter.
how do you remove iron of the bucky balls?
mine fell in sand because i was wearing it as a bracelet, then it stuck itself to a swing because i was running trough them. now my bucky balls are covered in iron! :(
I wish I had a better answer for you, but you'll basically have to remove it bit by bit. While the BuckyBall's strong magnetism is what allows them to do such cool tricks, it also means that it's difficult to get any "debris" like sand off of them.
is there a way to pay whitout creditcard??? and how?
Yes, you can mail in your order to us and pay with a cashier's check or money order. You can find further information about ordering through the mail here.
Are buckyballs 3/16 inch?? equal to 5mm or 4.7mm I know the difference is unimportant but i want to know
Each BuckyBall is 5mm in diameter.
does BuckyBalls have a case?
Yes, each BuckyBalls set comes with a square plastic carrying case.
Do these bounce at all? Even just a little bit?
Yes, BuckyBalls do bounce a little. But not nearly as high as the SkyBall!
Can I buy these at a store
We're not aware of a brick-and-mortar store that carries BuckyBalls. We ship worldwide, though, so we can certainly get some to you!
if you swallow some will things stick to your stomach?
Do not swallow BuckyBalls. They are extremely strong magnets, and while bumming around in your stomach, they can easily attract each other and cause intestinal blockage or puncture. If you do swallow BuckyBalls, seek medical attention.
Can I get another carrying case and instructions for making things?
Unfortunately we do not sell the carrying cases for the BuckyBalls separately, but any small case or bag will do. As for instructions, the BuckyBalls Complete Set does come with a few beginner ideas, but for more advanced tricks, check out the four instructional videos on our product page.
Will anything bad happen if i washed them with water?
Not right away but if you don't dry them completely they could corrode.
What's the most effective way to clean buckyballs? Can you use rubbing alcohol?
A soft cloth should work just fine.
But do they float?
No, BuckyBalls do not float.
My set of bucky balls fell on a gravel road, now there's a lot of gravel, small rocks and dust on it. HELP!
A customer previously suggested using adhesive tape to get dust and sand off of BuckyBalls. We haven't tried it, but it sounds like a good suggestion to us.
what does neodymium mean?
Neodymium is a chemical element which is often used as an alloy constituent of high strength neodymium magnets, like BuckyBalls.
My Buckyballs will not make the little triangles shown in your videos. They pop outwards and become circles when I try. It's difficult to even make a cube sometimes. Are my balls defective?
No, you're probably just experiencing the crazy laws of polarity. Try reorienting the BuckyBalls until they attract, rather than repel each other. It may take a little practice to form circles into triangles, but you'll get there!
Im in 7th grade, and we run and do activities all day, so if i wore the buckyball necklace all day, would it fall off?
I don't think so. BuckyBalls are pretty darn strong; you would have to pull on them to get them apart.
will it affect my buckyballs if i play with them in my pool?
Your guess is as good as ours, as we have not experimented with BuckyBalls in a pool. Sorry that we could not give a more concrete answer!
why are there exactly 216 buckyballs in the full set?
It makes a perfect 6x6x6 cube. The Sidekick set has 125 magnets which form a 5x5x5 cube.
How long do these toys last? I don't see how those tiny balls can stay magnetic forever.
They last a very long time. All magnets lose some of their magnetism, but it is at an extremely slow rate. Neodymium (what BuckyBalls are made of) tends to lose only about 1% of its magnetism over a 10 year period.
Will BuckyBalls rust or corrode in moisture?
As with most metals, there is always the possibility of rust with frequent exposure to water. But BuckyBalls have a nickel plating which should help to prevent rusting or corrosion. The manufacturer has yet to hear complaints or reports of it.
if i were 2 give it 2 my friend [10 years old] would she be considered a "kid"! p.s. I LOVE VAT19!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes, your friend falls into the "children" category. BuckyBalls should not be given to anyone under the age of 14.
how come when i play with my bucky balls my hands get black. and also is it okay if i wash them with soap and water?
The residue on your hands is likely the cleaning agent used to buff and polish the BuckyBalls at the end of the production cycle. The manufacturer recommends cleaning BuckyBalls with a soft cloth. You can clean with water if necessary, but make sure you dry the magnets thoroughly so they do not rust.
Would it be dangerous to wear buckballs such as neckless braclet or ring for to long and what would happen if you wear it in the shower or out in the SUN????????????????????
You can wear BuckyBalls as jewelry, but prolonged exposure to water (like in the shower) or moisture (like sweat from being in the sun) can cause them to rust.
Do you know what the grade of the magnets are? n30, n35, n38...?
BuckyBall magnets are grade N35.
How safe are these magnets? What happnes if I play with them all day long? Will I become Magneto? I don't want to become Magneto.
Just playing with BuckyBalls should not cause you harm. What can cause great harm is if you swallow them. Since BuckyBalls are very strong, they can create perforations in your intestines, and that's very bad. So, keep these away from kids or anyone (or anything, i.e. pets) who may swallow them!
Can it be shipped to Serbia ? I really want to order 1 , or maybe 2 sets .
If UPS can deliver to you, then we can too.
I'm 10, am I allowed to play it under adult supervision?
That is entirely up to your parents who would be ordering it for you. We do not recommend that BuckyBalls ever be used by anyone other than an adult.
Are the gold and black editions more or less durable than their silver counterparts and if so, by what margin?
The manufacturer has not noticed that one color is more durable than another.
You mentioned that buckyballs were grade N35. What does that mean exactly? What does the number 35 quantify in terms of magnetic strength and/or quality?
In a nutshell, the higher the grade, the "stronger" the magnet is. However, differences in strength between grades are slight (something like 5%). With a grade of N35, BuckyBalls are about as strong as they can get while still maintaining their "playability" (i.e. not so strong that you can't pull them apart).
In all the videos of Bucky Balls (cube shape), the hands snap the design apart so easily, but when I try, even slow, they just smoosh. What am I doing wrong?
Sometimes you do need to move slowly to ensure accuracy, especially if you're trying to complete one of the more complicated structures. Also make sure that you're not using too much pressure or force when you're snapping pieces together, as that can cause them to collapse upon themselves. When pulling structures apart, you'll need to "pinch" in between the magnets that you want to pull apart.
my friend has recently put 2 of the balls in his mouth but didnt swallow them. but just in case anyone swallows your balls, do i have to go to the e.r.?
Yes, if you swallow BuckyBalls, you should seek medical attention. They are very strong and powerful magnets that could cause serious damage to your insides if ingested. Don't even joke around by putting them in your mouth!
As im sure you know, the blood vessel contains iron particles (correct me im wrong). I thought about and surmised that playing with magnets with a force as strong as buckyballs wouldnt be very good for your heart. can assure me on that matter?
We have checked with the manufacturer and they assure us that playing with BuckyBalls will not affect the iron in your blood. In fact, neodymium magnets are often used in jewelry with boosted health and wellness benefits.
is there any set replacements for gold and black?
Not at this time.
Are there any official buckyballs clubs or competitions?
Not that we're aware of. You should get one going!
How many packs of Buckyballs do you think it would take to make a suit of armor for someone who is about 6ft tall?
A lot. You would probably need a hundred or so sets for a full body suit of armor.
Does it also work with BuckyCubes?
Of course! You can actually make some pretty interesting structures by combining the different sets.
Why do they cost so much?
BuckyBalls are made of neodymium, a rare earth element noted for its magnetic abilities. Neodymium is in incredibly high demand by the tech world, which have driven prices to the point where it is nearly as valuable as gold.
Ok so BuckyBalls come in sets of 216 and 125 and 5. Would I save money by buying sets of 5 until i had 216, or by buying a set of 216?
It would be considerably less expensive to simply order a set of 216 BuckyBalls.
1:do you accept euros?
2:how much is shipping to France?
3:if me and my friend eat buckyballs, would we be stuck together?
1) No, payment is made in US dollars. We accept payment with American Express, MasterCard, Discover, and Visa. Or you can pay online with a PayPal account.
2) Please click on the green "calculate shipping" link at the top of the product page, right below the price, to find out your shipping cost options.
3) DO NOT EAT BUCKYBALLS! Seriously, that would be very, very bad for your insides.
can you guts give me a list of the top 10 uses of Buckballs?
No, we're not David Letterman. But I can tell you that BuckyBalls are great for stress relief, constructing shapes, problem-solving (i.e. how do I construct that shape?), making jewelry, or just playing around.
Why do you call them "rare"?
*Deep breath* Technically, "rare earth" magnets aren't rare at all. They are named such because they are made from the alloys of rare earth elements. However, those "rare earth" elements aren't really rare either. They were originally coined as "rare" because they were first isolated from uncommon oxide-type minerals extracted from one mine in the village of Ytterby, Sweden. In actuality, rare earth elements are found in relatively high concentrations in the earth's crust. So basically, "rare" is just a nickname that stuck. (PS - Thanks, Wikipedia.)
You show a pencil caddy made of buckyballs near a computer. Wouldn't the magnets wipe out the computer's hard drive?
No. You'd have to set the BuckyBalls directly on top of your computer's hard drive to wipe it out. The relationship between the force of a magnet and the distance to an opposite pole is one over the square of that distance. Huh? Basically, the magnetic force decreases rapidly as distance increases. Generally speaking, if you halve the distance between two magnetic poles, the force between them increases by a factor of four. So, you'd have to get those BuckyBalls darned close to that hard drive.
I know not to eat Buckyballs and all, but (I'm just curious) how many Buckyballs consumed will it take to die? Please don't tell me not to eat them, I know not to eat them...
Depending on the circumstances, it could only take one. This is exactly why we say that BuckyBalls are intended for adult use only.
Do gold buckyballs stick to the black or silver ones?
BuckyBalls will stick together regardless if they are from various sets.
if you had 6 sets of buckyballs, will you make a bigger cube?
Wow, that would be a lot of BuckyBalls! Yes, you could make lots of larger shapes.
my buckyballs' shiny paint stuff is coming off.
This could be leftover residue from the cleaning agent used to shine the BuckyBalls. Don't worry, it's not harmful. If the actual nickel coating of one or more BuckyBalls becomes rough or cracked, please discontinue use.
By real gold is it just like electroplated? Is there anything about the black ones? Oh, and what are the promo codes I get good for?
The gold Buckyballs are plated in real gold, while the black BuckyBalls are plated with rare black nickel. To get promo codes, sign up for our e-mail newsletter here.
A few years ago I read that a kid died from ingesting neodymium magnets that came loose from a Magnetix Magnetic Building Set. This toy is a bunch of loose magnets. What does your package warning say?
All BuckyBalls packaging features the following warning: "Keep Away From All Children! Do not put in nose or mouth. Swallowed magnets can stick to intestines causing serious injury or death. Seek immediate medical attention if magnets are swallowed or inhaled."
Can you do magic tricks with buckyballs?
That depends on your definition of "magic". We think BuckyBalls are pretty magical as is, with their crazy strength and ability to create tons of interesting shapes. But if you're thinking magic tricks like "disappearing" BuckyBalls, for example, we have to say that we have not tried it yet. We're not magicians. But we don't see why a skilled magician couldn't come up with a BuckyBall trick or two.
Do you have to join something? To get them
Nope, nothing to join! Just add them to your cart and proceed with the checkout. Although not necessary to make a purchase, we highly suggest you join our e-mail newsletter. We'll send you updates on our newest products AND coupons, no more than twice per month.
can i buy this in a store?
We are not aware of any brick-and-mortar stores that carry the BuckyBalls Magnetic Toy. Good thing you can get it here!
What Are some cool fashion or jewelry ideas? Can you put on an magnetic pendant? P.S. Buckyballs Rule!!!!!!!!!!!!
The only limits are your own imagination. I'm a pretty big fan of the BuckyBalls ankle bracelet. You know, for when I'm out in my flip-flops and cut off jeans.
Why don't you sell silver plated (NOT nickel plated;nickel is the original)or colored Buckyballs? Also, why don't you sell Buckycubes? Is is because they have less customers?
We don't have any plans to carry other varieties of BuckyBalls, however we've been selling BuckyCubes for a while now.
Will the plating wear off.. has it for you?
The plating can wear off after a while, but it usually requires a lot of playing and time before they begin to show any signs of wear.
Is there a way to get discounts or coupons?
There sure is! We send out coupons twice each month in every issue of our free email newsletter.
is it a bad idea to get them near other magnets or even on other magnets
Nope, it's OK. BuckyBalls play well with other magnets.
Dear VAT19,
If i were to buy either the black version or gol version of buckyballs, will the gold and black paint come off?
No, the gold and/or black plating should not rub or flake off.
you guys are AWESOME just 1 thing you guys should get diff colored bucky balls a rainbow of AWESOMNESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That would be cool, but we currently do not have plans for rainbow BuckyBalls.
I noticed when plating comes off , buckyballs become more stronger. how come?
Probably because there's less to interfere with the magnetic field. You should still get rid of your chipped or broken Buckyballs.
are you going to get the new colors? (red,orange,blue,green/blue,purple,green,pink)
We do not have plans for new colors at this time. Sorry!
Just wondering do you not sell buckyballs to kids because they might use them as piercings or swallowing them and might die or get seriously injured?
That is exactly correct.
Does the material chip off. If it does in how long?
No, the plating should not rub or flake off. The plating may chip or crack, however, if a BuckyBall is accidentally dropped or hits a hard surface somehow. If this happens, you should discontinue use of that particular magnet.
If a lot of the plating scraches off, will it be dangerous to play with them, Even though it wuold take a long time for the plating to wear off??
Even if the plating should wear off, BuckyBalls are still perfectly functional and not dangerous to use.
Wait... where does it say you have to be 14+? I know you said that when you answered some you said age limit is 14+ but I do not see that in the overview or video. Just wondering. My friend and I saw the WBGW Video on YouTube and now VAT19 is my fav!
We do not have the age limit explicitly defined on the website, but we do state that they are for adult use only. It cannot be argued that anyone younger than 14 can be considered an adult.
How much does each Buckyball weigh?
One BuckyBall weighs about 0.5 grams.
What happens if i put them in water?
Prolonged exposure to water may cause BuckyBalls to rust or corrode.
what would i use for a soft cloth? is a tissue okay? what if it dosnt work
A tissue may be OK. But if you have a microfiber cloth, or better yet, our Ultimate Cloth, that would probably work a little better.
does a manual come with the balls do show shapes you can make with it.
There are some basic instructions included with your set of BuckyBalls.
In the video, it shows a girl wearing them as a necklace and bracelet (and a man with a ring), but once I get them, I'm nervous that the buckyballs with attract each other and suffocate me or I would have no blood flow. Will this happen? I <3 vat19
BuckyBalls are strong, but they aren't so strong that they'd crush your wrist or neck. That would be way too strong! Make your bracelet or necklace loose enough so it does not restrict your blood flow and is comfortable. Please keep in mind that BuckyBalls are recommended for ages 14+.
If u carry a few packs of buckyballs (as gifts to friends)in my check-in luggage out of the country, will the customs officer give me a hard time about it?
BuckyBalls are not hazardous materials, and so far the manufacturer has not had or heard of any problems with airport security. Therefore, it's highly unlikely that you will run into problems, but we cannot guarantee smooth sailing through airports and customs.
I'd like to buy 3 of each pack for all my friends by christmas, are you putting more in stock by then?
We certainly hope so!
Do the Bucky Balls or cubes get weakened over time?
Neodymium magnets like BuckyBalls only lose about 1% of their magnetism over a 10-year period. The difference is not noticeable.
These are better than legos?
They aren't really the same as LEGOs, so it's not easy to compare the two. BuckyBalls are certainly much more challenging than LEGOs.
I wanted to really buy one of the original set but I have to ask why are they so expensive?
Neodymium is a very expensive mineral, and is pound for pound roughly the same price as gold.
What happens if I put the buckyballs in water for, let's say, a few minutes. Would that affect their magnetism?
I don't think so. BuckyBalls will work underwater, but prolonged exposure may cause BuckyBalls to rust or corrode. The nickel plating helps to prevent this, but it's still possible.
What will if you put it never the magnetic putty?
The putty will eventually "swallow" the BuckyBalls.
what will happen if the silver plating falls off
Should the plating chip or crack, the manufacturer recommends discontinuing use. It's not a health hazard; the jagged edges could simply scratch your fingers.
i got bucky balls but i find it hard to get a cube you make it look so easy! but when i try folding it into six ball lines it just bends and becomes a circle, also i kinda smells weird. is there something wrong with it??
No. Working with BuckyBalls just takes some practice. Keep at it and you'll get the hang of it soon!
If I dropped some on the floor and I cant Find them, How CAN I Find them?
Grab a group of BuckyBalls and try using it to attract the lost magnets.
Are buckyballs popular worldwide?
Probably not as popular as they are in the USA, but we have shipped them to other countries.
How long will it take you to ship buckyballs to, say, green bay WI?
This depends on the shipping method that you choose. If you were to choose UPS Ground, for example, it would take 3-5 business days (does not include Saturday and Sunday). For a full list of delivery options, please click on the green "Calculate Shipping" link at the top of the product page (near the price).
Can buckyballs lose their power?
Perhaps very gradually over long periods of time. Unless you superheat the magnets you are not going to notice any diminished magnetism.
My sister lost 8 of my buckyballs :( Are you ever gonna have replacements again?
Sorry, but we do not have any immediate plans to bring back the Buckyball replacement sets.
What would happen if you set them next to a computer or electronic device?
Not much. You'd only be in any real danger by setting them next to a CRT monitor or a stack of floppy discs.
Will you check how old we are before selling buckyballs and if yes couldn't we just say we are 14?
Most banks require that you be at least 18 to acquire a credit card. If not, then we hope that the adult ordering them for you is honest enough to follow our recommendation.
Why do buckyballs have North and south pole?
Why wouldn't they just have 1 pole?
Because all magnets, no matter what the size, have two poles. Shape has nothing to do with polarity, as the Earth is round and has two poles.
Is it really worth the money cause my mom thinks they're to expensive.
Neodymium is pretty expensive, but we think that the hours of fun that you'll get out of BuckyBalls would be totally worth it.
I'm 14 years old, so am I able to use them?
Sure! Just promise you wont eat them or stick them up your nose and you should be fine.
Do buckyballs rust?
If left submerged or wet for long periods of time, rust is a possibility. However, for BuckyBalls to rust it would have to be a deliberate attempt to do so.
how much does the carrying case weigh?
About 0.4 ounces.
Can you make a diamond shape out of it?
Yep! Check out our second demo video, where we build a diamond-like shape.
after continuous handling of bucky balls, they now dont smell good anymore - maybe because my son doesnt wash his hands! As a result, they smell awful. how do i wash them and make them smell good again?
You can clean BuckyBalls with a soft, damp cloth, but be sure to dry them off afterwards. Excessive exposure to water and moisture could cause them to rust.
I have a set right here, and I was curious as to why the set I have now is so difficult to manipulate compared to the set(s) shown in the videos.
It can be hard to get a hang of BuckyBalls. The hands in the video belong to Jon, who practiced a lot before going in front of the camera and making it look easy. You'll get there!
is the gold edition realy gold? if so how many karats?
The gold edition has real gold plating, but it's not enough to really register on the karat scale.
Is there a warning that comes with these balls? Cause there shoud be...like ppl with pace makers...it'll affect their unit!!!
Yes, each set of BuckyBalls comes with warnings on the packaging, as well as on the storage case.
Can buckyballs relieve pain and stiffness associated with arthritis?
There have not been any medical tests with BuckyBalls to prove that they help with arthritis, so we unfortunately do not have a definitive answer for you. All we can say is that people seem to be in a happier place when they are playing with BuckyBalls.
i have a hamster, what would happen if he ate 1 or2? BTW you peeps are avwesome!!!!!
Don't let your hamster eat BuckyBalls! They are very strong magnets and could do major damage to the little thing's insides.
Is it real gold plating? And what karat?
The gold edition has real gold plating, but it's not enough to really register on the karat scale.
Do these balls get lost easily? Does it come with a storage box?
Yes, BuckyBalls include a carrying case.
How many tricks come in the BIG BOOK of Bucky?
The Big Book of Bucky contains dozens of tips, tricks, and designs.
Do they work with buckycubes?
BuckyBalls and BuckyCubes play very nicely together.
Can the buckyballs be used with your buckycubes at the same time?
Of course! You can actually make some pretty interesting structures by combining the different sets.
I washed my buckyballs after it fell on the ground and the gold paint flaked off, what do I do now?
Unfortunately there isn't much we can do. Over time, it is inevitable that the plating will begin to show signs of wear.
are you going to get the coulored buckey balls?
We do not have plans to carry the colored BuckyBalls at this time.
I got my buckyballs a few days ago. and when I play with them for a while my tips of my fingers turn a little black what does this meen?
The residue on your hands is likely the cleaning agent used to buff and polish the BuckyBalls at the end of the production cycle. The manufacturer recommends cleaning BuckyBalls with a soft cloth. You can clean with water if necessary, but make sure you dry the magnets thoroughly so they do not rust.
Is it real gold!?
Yep! The BuckyBall Executive Gold Set are plated with real gold.
Will the color for the black version ever wear out?
ps:vat19 is awesome
Thanks! It is possible that after a very long time of use you might begin to notice slight wearing on your BuckyBalls, but it is not something that will happen immediately or dramatically.
Are there any other reasons that BuckyBalls are dangerous to kids under 14?
The magnets are extremely strong and could be dangerous to both people and machinery if used improperly. The manufacturer set the age limit and we are going to stick to it.
Is the gold version made out of real gold or is it just paint?
Yes, the Gold Executive model BuckyBalls are plated with real gold.
if one set makes a 6x6x6 cube, what size cube does two sets make
Two sets of BuckyBalls is 432 magnets. You cannot make a perfect cube using all 432 magnets. The biggest cube you could make would be a 7x7x7, and you'd have 89 magnets leftover.
do you have to be 18 or older to buy your items
In order to purchase from Vat19.com, you will need a valid credit card or PayPal account. Alternatively, you can mail in a cashier's check or money order.
is the gold bucky ball real gold and why is it so expensive
The Gold BuckyBalls have gold plating on them that makes them a little more valuable than the original nickel set.
Is the gold set real gold and why does it cost to much because now my mom and dad will never let me buy it unless I save up my own money which will be like impossible to do on my own! But if it is real gold i understand.
The Gold BuckyBalls are not solid gold, but are plated in real gold, hence they are slightly more expensive.
If im playing with this and i drop it in food, but take it out again, is it still safe to eat the food, or does the buckyball have super massive powers that makes it make the food taste like something else? or does nothing happen at all?
I strongly caution against playing with BuckyBalls around any food, as accidentally consuming one of these magnets could be very hazardous to your health.
Could I use the buckyball as a bebe? Will it sink into magnetic thinking putty?
No, do not use BuckyBalls as BBs. But you can use them with Magnetic Thinking Putty. The putty will "swallow" a BuckyBall magnet pretty quickly.
I live in India. I want Buckyballs soooooo bad. Do you ship to India? And if you do, how long would you take? Is there any express or faster shipping I can opt for? And will there be any problems at the Indian customs department?
Yes, we do ship to India. Orders ship the same business day or next business day. Our fastest international shipping option is UPS Worldwide Expedited, which takes 2-5 business days and is trackable. We have not heard of customs issues with this product, but that is out of our control.
In you videos, the person can make little triangles, trapezoids, squares, and hexagons. Why can't mine those shapes? All I could make is cylinders.
BuckyBalls are really strong, so it can take some practice to get used to handling them and manipulating them. We suggest watching the video again to see how to make various shapes.
When I pull them into a string, about how long will it be?
Well, each BuckyBall has a 5mm diameter. So, if you have a Full set of 216 magnets, the string would be about 42.5 inches. If you have a Sidekick set of 125 magnets, the string would be about 24.6 inches.
Can these magnets rust?
BuckyBalls have a nickel plating which should help prevent rust, and the manufacturer has yet to hear complaints or reports of it. But, like most metals, there is always possibility of rust, especially if they are frequently exposed to water. (We're not sure why they would be, unless you're building BuckyBall structures in the bath. And if you are, we really don't need the details...)
why do my old bucky balls make my hands look dirty
My guess is that your Buckyballs are dirty themselves.
Are you guys gonna get BuckyBIGs or chromatics any time soon?
Maybe someday! Please keep checking back.
Can you make it to a key chain?
BuckyBalls might not make a particularly sturdy keychain.
Do the gold plated ones lose the gold plating over time?
No, the plating should not rub or flake off. The plating may chip or crack, however, if a BuckyBall is accidentally dropped or hits a hard surface somehow. If this happens, you should discontinue use of that particular magnet.
A few months ago I swallowed one buckyball. When I bought them the lady at the store told me they were fatal if swallowed. This scares me. I only swallowed one, so am I going to die?
Probably not, but she wasn't joking either. There is absolutely no reason why you should ever have BuckyBalls in your mouth.
Are the gold and silver kind heavier than the nickel?
All BuckyCubes are approximately the same weight.
Uh, how come on the video you said it could be a fun math learning tool for kids, but you guys say it shouldn't be for kids?
Kids with close parental supervision, of course.
Do you have any jewelry ideas with buckyballs?
You can use BuckyBalls to create rings, necklaces, or bracelets. We do not recommend using them as fake piercings.
What is the difference between the nickel, black, and gold?
Apart from the plating, there is no difference in magnetic ability between the Original and Executive sets.
Will you ever make bucky-pyramids? If so when.
We aren't the manufacturer, but if they ever do come out with such a thing we will definitely take a look at it!
I have a full set of buckyballs but I can't make 8 hexagons and 12 triangles together. Did u guys use two sets?
We may have used more than one set for some of the designs in the video.
What does the sidekick do it looks the same like the others?
It's exactly the same, however there are fewer BuckyBalls in the Sidekick set than the Original set.
Does the gold plating affect the magnetism of the bucky balls?
The gold plating has no affect on the magnetic properties of the BuckyBalls.
Why do you sell only to adults? I'll never eat anything not food or lose any.
While I'm sure you are mature enough to use BuckyBalls, they are still very powerful magnets and could be dangerous if used inappropriately.
What would happen if someone were to swallow more than one BuckyBall? And what could they do besides getting surgery & going to the hospital?
Swallowing powerful magnets is extremely dangerous and can be very damaging to your insides. This is exactly the reason why we only sell BuckyBalls to adults who know better than to stick them in their mouth.
How come the "real gold" and "rare black nickle" balls are the same price as the regular ones?
The Gold and Black Executive Sets are actually a little more expensive than the Original BuckyBall Set.
Soooo if your 10, 11,13,12, or 9 and your old enough to know that it's bad to eat buckyballs you still wouldn't recommend them to people under 14?
Right. We are very sure to closely follow the manufacturer's suggested age limit. There are numerous potential hazards with magnets as strong as BuckyBalls.
Why are bucky balls so dangerous when they're around kids?
Kids like to put things in their mouth, and strong magnets like BuckyBalls are VERY dangerous when swallowed.
What if my dog swallows one?
It's always better to be safe than sorry. Give your vet a call.
if I swallow these, will I die if I go in an MRI? I didn't by the way.
Swallowing any strong magnet like BuckyBalls is dangerous, even if you don't go in an MRI. The magnets could do serious damage to your intestinal wall.
Does the gold paint on the gold Bucky balls scratch or peel or come off after a while or will it stay on forever?
It's not paint, but rather plating, so it should not scratch or peel off. It is possible for the plating to chip, however, if the BuckyBall is dropped or thrown onto a hard surface. If that should happen, discontinue use of that particular magnet.
Do the carry cases come in other colours or do they only come in orange?
Only orange.
how long have Buckyballs been around?
The BuckyBalls debuted on Vat19.com in May of 2009.
will it ever lose or weakend its magnetic force?
Unless Buckyballs are exposed to extreme heat (176 degrees Fahrenheit and above), they will not lose their magnetism.
i tried these and i cant really find out how to make the cube work. i have watched the video and i does not work. what do i do??
It takes some practice to be able to control the BuckyBalls in the way that you need to in order to make specific shapes. Don't let yourself get frustrated. It takes time and concentration.
I just ordered golden buckyballs is it good give a 7 year old buckyballs
No! Keep BuckyBalls away from ALL children. They are potentially hazardous if swallowed.
do you sell buckyballs in bulk
No, BuckyBalls are only available in full sets of 216 magnets or the Sidekick set of 125 magnets.
when all 216 bucky balls of a full set are together, how far is their magnetic pull
Actually, not much. When a full set of 216 BuckyBalls are stuck together, their magnetic pull doesn't really "multiply". Only two ends are exposed in the whole knot (and of opposite poles no less). In this scenario, their collective pull is fairly low - enough to stick a scissor to the bunch, but not much more.
Are bucky balls waterproof? I wanna wash mine but i dont know if they will get ruined
Yes, you could wash them. If they had frequent exposure to water or moisture, then there would be the possibility for rust or corrosion. The BuckyBalls have nickel plating to help prevent this though.
Does this one have free shipping?
Yes, but only if your order total reaches $125. Free ground shipping is only offered to US shipping addresses.
How big are the spheres in diameter because i have other sets and if i buy these,i want them to be the same size as my others.
BuckyBalls are 5mm in diameter.
Would there be any danger in carrying the Buckyballs in a purse with an iphone or any other handheld computer? I recently read that an iphone case with magnetic clasp ruined the phone.
The manufacturer of BuckyBalls did a lot of experimenting with strength, and they took great care to make the magnets one step weaker than would de-magnetize even a standard subway card. However, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Make sure that you keep your BuckyBalls and electronic devices a few inches apart.
can you ship stuff to the phillipines? cause i want one
Yes, we do ship to the Philippines. We ship worldwide!
How are magnets like this made?
That's a good question, and one far beyond our capacity to answer. We suggest Googling "How are magnets made?" There's a wealth of information out there.
Can you use these with thinking puddy?
You can! Magnetic Thinking Putty will devour your Buckyballs if given the opportunity.
If it starts to chip will it effect anything with the buckyballs?
No, but it's probably a good idea to throw away damaged Buckyballs so that they do not scrape your fingers or cause damage to the other balls.
Are the black ones bigger
Nope. All styles of Buckyballs are the exact same size.
the gold ones is the gold so little that if i would clean them with water that gold will come off cause that would suck :P
We don't recommend using water to clean BuckyBalls unless you dry them very thoroughly. The gold plating should not come off very easily.
Hey I'm 9 years old .Can I have Buckyballs ? I'm very mature. thx
No. Absolutely not.
What do I use to clean my BuckyBalls, for they are a little dirty.
A little water would work. Just make sure you dry them thoroughly so that they do not corrode.
What do you think is the best age limit on Bucky balls and or Bucky cubes?
The age limit is and has always been 14 and up.
Would buckyballs clean well with my oakley sunglasses cleaner?
We haven't tried that so we can't guarantee how well that would work.
Can you bring the Bucky balls on a plane??
I can't think of any reason why you wouldn't be able to, but you might have a bit of difficulty with the metal detectors. I would keep your BuckyBalls in your checked luggage, or contact airport security for a more precise answer.
I'm 14 and i want to buy bucky balls i have enough money for the 216 pack, but i am really conflicted because it seems like too much money, but it has more bucky balls.
Neodymium is naturally expensive. Because of it's use in so many electronics, and the fact that there are so few operating mines, neodymium has a value that is comparable to gold.
what is the biggest thing ever made out of bucky balls?!? And why do you guys make all these weird but awesome things?
I'm not sure what the largest sculpture ever made with BuckyBalls is, but there is a passionate group of builders on YouTube who show off some pretty impressive designs.
Which is better for your first pack, sidekick or original
I would recommend going with the Original BuckyBall set.
My mom has a pump for insulin, will buckyballs interfier with it if they get to close and what would they do if they got to close?
We aren't positive, but we strongly recommend against allowing BuckyBalls anywhere near medical equipment.
What happens when a bucky balls are swallowed? are you going to die or get sick?
Swallowing powerful magnets is extremely dangerous and can be very damaging to your insides. This is exactly the reason why we only sell BuckyBalls to adults who know better than to stick them in their mouth.
Can I bring BuckyBalls in airplane?
It shouldn't be an issue, but you may want to contact the TSA or airport security just to be on the safe side.
I bought a set of buckyballs and they are truely awesome! Do you plan on carrying the new color buckyballs or even buckycubes at this time? P.S. What editing program do you currently use?
Awesome! We're glad you like them! We have not made an official announcement regarding BuckyCubes at this time, but do keep checking back!
So if I drop all my bucky balls in my pool that has chlorine in it will it damage it?
Submerging BuckyBalls will very likely cause rust or corrosion if they are not dried off quickly.
Will color or magnetism wear out by time?
Over an extended period of time the plating may begin to wear or chip, but the magnetism will never be noticeably diminished.
Can you shoot them out of a BB gun?
No. BuckyBalls are slightly larger than conventional BBs and will jam the barrel.
What's Bucky Balls Sidekick?
The BuckyBall Sidekick model is a little smaller (125pcs) than the Original set (216pcs).
Wouldn't the black nickle or gold plating cover the magnet making it less powerful? p.s you Guys (and girls) are awesome!
Nope, the black and gold versions have the same magnetic power as the original. (And thank you!)
Ok, look, I am a 11 year old author (soon-to-be-author, anyway) and I am extremely insulted that you would even consider the atrocious idea that I am not mature enough to mess around with BuckyBalls. What do you think I am going to do, swallow them??
We understand that not all children are at the same maturity level, but as a precautionary measure, we must enforce the warning from the manufacturer that BuckyBalls must be kept away from children.
is buckyballs for boys and girls cause i'm a girl and i like some of those.
BuckyBalls are for males and females. They are for adults, not children.
In the "features and specs" section, it says that the magnets come in silver as well, but there's no option to order silver buckyballs. Could you clarify, please?.
"Silver" is the original color. This is what you will receive if you order the "Original Set".
will the have any afect on Q-man?
They will stick to the magnets on the Q-Man.
will the plating eventually brake?
It is possible for the plating to chip off if you drop BuckyBalls onto the floor or throw them against a hard surface. If the plating does chip, discontinue use of those magnets. It's not harmful, but the jagged edges may scratch your fingers.
well what is the harmful thing you could do with it and the most harmfullness thing
DO NOT swallow BuckyBalls. They can do serious damage to your intestines and stomach wall.
Do you ship it to Lithuania? Its in europe
Yes, we can ship to Lithuania.
how is it a math learing tool for kids
First we must note that BuckyBalls are NOT for children under 14 years of age. For those over the age of 14, BuckyBalls can help to understand the principles of geometry.
I see that you can use it as a stress ball. Will the plated balls start chipping? BTW, love your website and your vids are hilarious. Gabe.
The plating on the BuckyBalls should not chip easily, but if they do (say, from dropping against a hard surface), discontinue use of those particular balls.
I bought some on Ebay (Generic brand Not buckyBalls), they have chipped a bit. how many coating of nickel are the bucky balls coated in? Just 1? I have heard of bucky balls chipping and i want to find some that have more than 1 coating of nickel.
BuckyBalls have almost 20 coatings. Properly applying them takes almost 12 hours!
How much does each buckyball weigh?
One BuckyBall weighs about 0.5 grams.
what if we ate one of these?
Please do not eat BuckyBalls! They are very strong magnets that could cause damage to your internal organs. If they are ingested, please seek medical treatment.
There are three buckyballs holding that half pound wrench.
That's only because it was extremely difficult (near impossible actually) to hold onto just one BuckyBall. We had to add a couple more so we could grip it.
how much balls can you connect?
(when you buy more sets)
This is a good question, and unfortunately we don't have a definitive answer. Each little magnet is crazy strong, so if you strung them together on the floor or something, I'd think it could go on indefinitely. We're not entirely sure of the maximum amount of weight that a single BuckyBall can hold, though, so we can't specify how many you could dangle from a single magnet. However, we do know that a single BuckyBall can hold onto a half-pound wrench, so you could at least dangle a half-pound of BuckyBalls (which is a little over two sets, or about 450 BuckyBalls).
I really want to make a cube out of my bucky balls but i'm missing 2 balls, will you ever sell spares again?
Maybe someday, but right now there are no plans to carry spares.
Will the coating flake and smudge in my hand?
No, BuckyBalls will not smudge your hands. If you grind them together frequently they can start to chip, however.
When are you going to sell Blue Edition BuckyBalls?
Sorry, but we do not currently have any plans to carry BuckyBalls in different colors.
My 4 year old brother likes anything that is shiny, bucky balls are on that list of shiny things. How dangerous can this product be???
Extremely dangerous to a person that young. We do not recommend letting anyone under the age of 14 play with BuckyBalls.
Do you ship to Dubai?
Yes, we are able to ship to Dubai, UAE.
My daughter left them in the sun. Can they be cleaned?
The manufacturer recommends cleaning BuckyBalls with a soft cloth. You can clean with water if necessary, but make sure you dry the magnets thoroughly afterward so they do not rust.
Could I use the levitron revolution to display buckey balls?
Sounds pretty awesome to me. Go for it!
After using the buckyballs, will your hand be a bit black?
BuckyBalls will not stain or discolor your hands.
I was seeing that if buckyballs are used inproperly them it is dangerous. Is it that the magnet is so powerful that to force can hurt people or is it some other improper use?
Both. We get countless comments asking if they can be used as tongue piercings, nose piercings, and so on. When these magnets take hold, they do not easily let go, and that can be especially dangerous inside of your body.
Can you play bucky-balls and buckey-cube together to make an awesome structure?
You sure can! There is no limit to the creative possibilites.
If you are 100 years old can you still play with buckyballs or will the harmful coating kill you?
Absolutely! There is no harmful coating on BuckyBalls or BuckyCubes.
What is the sidekick?
The Sidekick is simply a smaller version of the Original set.
If BuckyBalls are used for 9months will they really become dirty?
BuckyBalls wouldn't get "dirty", but over time they may begin to show a little bit of wear. How quickly this happens depends on how regularly you use your BuckyBalls.
How long would it take to ship them internationally?
It really depends on the shipping method you choose and the location they're being sent to. You can find estimates for shipping times and costs by clicking the "Calculate Shipping" link above the green "Add to Cart" button on each product page.
Can you do all the same things with the sidekick package?
You may have to alter the size and shape of some of the designs since you will have fewer BuckyBalls to work with, but the BuckyBalls themselves are the same in both sets.
When These Buckyballs collide would they make extremely small cracks on the surface flaking the plating and eventually the magnet itself? In which case will those flakes of magnet be enough to harm me?
It is possible for the plating on the BuckyBalls to chip if they hit a hard surface with enough force. The magnet won't be harmful to your health if it chips, but we suggest you discontinue use of any chipped BuckyBalls simply because the chipped edges could scratch your fingers.
Can you still make all the same shapes with the "sidekick" that you can with the "original"?
The Sidekick has fewer BuckyBalls than the original set, so you would probably have to reduce the size of some shapes. Other than that, the BuckyBalls themselves are identical.
name all the drawbacks,pitfalls,and minor inconviniences of bucky balls even if its as small as them being able to break easy or as big as them exploding in contact with water.p.s. how do you spell the 8th word properly.p.s.s. you guys are la bomba
As long as you take care of them, there really aren't any inherent flaws with BuckyBalls.
For the guy who asked if you can take them on a airplane you can but they will get checked just thought I would tell you
Thanks for the tip!
if you make jewelry with the buckyballs, like let's say, a ring, will your fingers get green from having the ring on for too long? Like with the cheap jewelry?
Because Buckyballs are not made out of sterling silver or 14k gold, there is a chance they will turn skin green as they react with it.
Are the exclusive editions (black and gold) thicker than the original ones??? I'm gunna see if i can get some =)
No, they are the same diameter.
Is it possible for a buckyball to break off of the strand easily?
No, not really. They are very strong.
is it okay if you play with buckyballs on a rug or hard surface? will it cause coating to come off
I don't think you should have problems, unless you drop or knock the magnets against a hard surface. That may chip the coating.
is it okay if grease goes on buckyballs?
If you happen to get grease on your BuckyBalls magnets, simply try washing them off with dishsoap and water. Make sure that you dry them thoroughly.
I've noticed that everytime I play with the Buckyballs, it leaves a black stain on my nails. Is there anyway to stop the stain from happening-besides not playing with it (NEVER!) or wearing protective gear (It ruins the fun)?
Hmm, the stains on your fingers are probably from the cleaning agent that is used to polish up the BuckyBalls. Nothing to worry about.
You guys lied! There are 3 BuckyBalls holding up that wrench! Why would you lie to us!
The only reason we did that was because it was impossible for us to grip one little BuckyBall.
Why do the black and gold buckyballs cost more than the original ones?
Because the coatings (gold and black nickel) are more rare and valuable.
If the magnets are so rare... How can there be so many?
Technically, "rare earth" magnets aren't rare at all. They are named such because they are made from the alloys of rare earth elements. However, those "rare earth" elements aren't really rare either. They were originally coined as "rare" because they were first isolated from uncommon oxide-type minerals extracted from one mine in the village of Ytterby, Sweden. In actuality, rare earth elements are found in relatively high concentrations in the earth's crust. So basically, "rare" is just a nickname that stuck. (Thanks, Wikipedia.)
I have just read every question and answer and am impressed by your determination. Although I did not find my answer. I want to get myself a set and surely wear them. Have you heard of any wear or rust happening from constant wear of Buckyballs?
We're glad you enjoy our BQ! Wearing the BuckyBalls as jewelry is not the application that most people use, but it is possible to do so. The BuckyBalls can rust if they are exposed to water for a prolonged period, so be sure to keep them dry. It is also possible for the coating to chip if you drop or bang the BuckyBalls against a hard surface. If that happens, discontinue use of the magnet that is chipped.
I have 2 questions:
Do you think this toy is dangerous?
Can this be a great Christmas gift?
Thank you! Plus I tell all my friends about Vat19.com HeeHee! :D
BuckyBalls can be dangerous in the wrong hands, which is why we strongly recommend to keep them away from all children (and animals, too). If swallowed, the magnets can cause damage to your intestines. That being said, they make an awesome gift for the right person (an adult, that is).
can they lose their magnatism and colour ?
BuckyBalls should not lose their magnetism or color. If any of your BuckyBalls become chipped or cracked, please discontinue use. (Not because they're hazardous; just because they may scratch your fingers.)
why is it not recommended for kids under 14?
BuckyBalls can be very dangerous to your health if swallowed. They're also very small, so they're best kept out of the hands of children.
Will they demagnetize a credit card?
We haven't heard reports of such, but we recommend keeping BuckyBalls at least a few inches away from electronics or anything that might have a magnetic storage device in or on it, like credit cards.
In your second training video, what was the shape that you made?
We refer to it as a "star-like pyramidal shape". I'm sure that's not the technical term.
If you wore these as a bracelet and you held something like a phone or wii remote, would the magnets mess the thing your holding up?
We have yet to hear of a case where BuckyBalls damaged electronics. Even so, these are strong magnets, and it's better to be safe than sorry. Keep BuckyBalls a least a few inches away from anything that may have a magnetic storage device in or on it (i.e. computers, credit cards, etc.).
Would bucky balls keep me entertained for a long time? And not just one or two weeks?
In our opinion, yes, definitely.
Are they free shipping?
Orders over $125 qualify for free shipping within the USA.
Will you ever make a deal for buying 1080 buckyballs so I'm not spending 150 some odd dollars for 5 different sets?
I'm sorry, but we currently have no plans for BuckyBall bundles. On the plus side, an order of 5 BuckyBalls sets will get you free shipping in the US!
do you ship world wide cuz i live in the north pole
Santa?
My buckyballs are not coming in a straight line they like curving slightly in a zig zag motion what can I do
Make sure the poles are lined up correctly or they will repel and twist like that.
IS it ok to bring buckyballs into a plane?
I can't think of any reason why you wouldn't be able to, but you might have a bit of difficulty with the metal detectors. I would keep your BuckyBalls in your checked luggage, or contact airport security for a more precise answer.
you guys are AMAZING! and very very funny, and i trust you guys to answer my question, me and my brother have heard that nanodots feel better made than buckyballs, soi was wondering are buckyballs still well made?
BuckyBalls are very well made. All the different styles and brands are basically identical when you get right down to it. As long as you aren't grinding them together, your BuckyBalls should hold up for a long time.
My Bad! I meant with normal use and proper storage/care, how long until the plating starts to chip? and does that go for the Buckycubes!
That just depends on how often you use them. Sorry, but there isn't really a set amount of time that I can provide.
How long does the coating last before it starts to chip? (on average)
It depends entirely on how you take care of them and how you play with them, so there isn't really an average to speak of. If you grind them together often, it could take only a few months.
Can you put them on the levitron?
Yes, but you still need the Levitron's disc for anything to actually float.
Do different types of Buckyballs stick together?
Yep! Size and shape have no affect on whether or not a magnets are able to attract one another.
Can they make a stress ball?
BuckyBalls make excellent stress balls!
Not trying to be rude, but Why do you say there a good math learning tool for kids but you recommend them for adults?
Adults can have math problems too. Besides, we would hope that parents would be overseeing their child's exercises anyways.
Is the case for the black edition buckyballs black like the chromatics? :D
No, all styles of BuckyBalls come with an orange carrying case.
has anyone bought the black buckyballs before?
Why yes they have. Thank you for asking!
what happens if i swallow them?
You could very easily choke or cause severe internal damage. NEVER eat a magnet.
Do any of the demos only require a side kick, or do they all require an original set or more?
Most of the demos required either a full set of Buckyballs or sometimes even two.
Why are they so expensive?
Neodymium is naturally expensive. Because of it's use in so many electronics, and the fact that there are so few operating mines, neodymium has a value that is comparable to gold.
i am 12 years and i have a buckball set. my mum is getting me more sets of them. i ask her if i can use them and she says im ok with them. i keep them away from people and take very good care of them. will i get caught or arrested??
No. There's no law against owning BuckyBalls or BuckyCubes if you're younger than 14, but we have simply chosen not to sell them to people younger than 14.
Can BuckyBalls attract through clothing?
Yes. BuckyBalls are very strong magnets.
What if I'm 12 but my mom orders them for me is it ok for me to play with them and by the way do the harm your blood circulation or something like that because I don't want something that could damage my blood
We can't stop your mother from buying them for you, but they can be extremely harmful to you or electronics if used improperly. BuckyBalls do not affect your circulation in any way.
What will happen if you Swallow 2 buckyballs?
BuckyBalls can be extremely harmful if swallowed, which is exactly why they are for adult use only.
Do you have coupons for vat19?
We include promo codes in each installment of our twice-monthly email newsletter. You can sign up to begin receiving them here.
If I set them down on a table, would they roll away?
Because they are spheres, they could roll away, but if even two are connected they won't roll away very easily.
When you make a necklace,can you put a Q man on?
That would probably work. Actually, that sounds pretty stylish if you ask me!
If I were to get the black bucky balls, would I have to worry about the paint scraping off? What about the gold?
They aren't painted, they're plated. This means that they will hold on much longer than simple paint. With a lot of use, it is possible that the plating can begin to come off a little bit, but this will not affect the magnetic abilities of your BuckyBalls.
Can I make a connected pyramid model with the sidekick buckyballs?
You might have to adjust the size of the pyramid because you will have fewer BuckyBalls, but they themselves are identical to the larger sets.
Will buckyballs ever loose their magnetism? I mean ever?
Certainly not easily and definitely not anytime soon. With normal use your BuckyBalls will retain their magnetism for years and years.
do they have a metallic smell? if so, does it linger on your hands?
You may notice a bit of a smell on your hands after using BuckyBalls for a while, but it's nothing that won't go away without a little soap.
I've found a solution to the shavings! or another one.
it requires another VAT19.com product! the magnetic thinking putty!(awesome product) just wipe the magnets against the putty and it shaving will stick to the putty!
doesn't ruin the putty to muc
Thanks for the tip!
Would these be safe to take on an airplane? Or would they get caught by the metal detectors and confiscated?
We are not aware of any problems with traveling with BuckyBalls, but we cannot guarantee that the TSA will not confiscate them.
How much does the whole set weigh total
One BuckyBall weighs about 0.5 grams. Multiply that by 216, and you've got 108 grams, or about 3.8 ounces, for the full set. The Sidekick set has 125 spheres, so that weighs about 62.5 grams, or 2.2 ounces.
could it break electronics?
Neither we nor the manufacturer has heard of a case where BuckyBalls erased or affected electronic devices. However, it's always better to be safe than sorry, so we recommend keeping Buckyballs at least a few inches away from anything that might have a magnetic storage device in or on it, including computers, cassette tapes, credit cards, and hotel room keys.
my bucky balls seem to be getting less magnetic every day. i have the gold set, and the color is allmost fading. plus when i first used them, my fingers turned a bit gray. whats happening?
Hmm, BuckyBalls are neodymium, which is a very strong magnet that should not lose its magnetism. They should not lose their color, either. The grayness that appeared on your fingers when first using them was likely the cleaning agent used to polish the magnets before they were packed up. If you feel you received a defective set of magnets, please give us a all at 800-476-1991 so that we can look up your order and see what we might be able to do in regards to a replacement.
are these toxic if they rub off on your hands?
No, any residue that is left on your fingers is most likely the cleaning agent that they used to polish them up. It is harmless, but you'll still probably want to wash your hands before eating anything.
will they chip,and if they do how long does it take
and will it affect them if it does chip
It is possible for the coating on BuckyBalls to chip if they are thrown against or dropped onto a hard surface. If that happens, discontinue use of that magnet. It's not hazardous, but the jagged edges may scratch your fingers.
I hear metal jewelery is therapeutic. Are BuckyBall necklaces and bracelets also therapeutic, or you don't know?
I've heard the same, but I do not believe any tests have been performed with BuckyBalls to determine whether or not they have any therapeutic effects. Even if they don't, they still look cool!
I am 12 an am insulted that you think i'm not mature enough to handle buckyballs without swallowing them. Really, do you think I eat metal for fun???
We do not mean to insult kids under 14 years old. However, the "not for children under 14 years of age" is an official, government-imposed warning and guideline that we must adhere to.
In your video you mention playing fridge magnets, yet you mention that "they may shatter or pieces may break off if thrown at hard surfaces." Well, which one is it Bucky boys?
It's true that BuckyBalls may chip if thrown at or if they hit hard surfaces. However, we took our chances with "fridge darts" and didn't have a problem. However, we cannot guarantee that they will not chip if you decide to do the same.
After long uses of play, does the plating on each ball break off and reveal the insides?
No, the plating should not rub or flake off. The plating may chip or crack, however, if a BuckyBall is accidentally dropped or hits a hard surface somehow. If this happens, you should discontinue use of that particular magnet.
do you ship to croatia? and would the nickel plating fall off when pulled by a even stronger magnet?
Yes, we can ship to Croatia. We have never heard of another magnet pulling off the plating on the BuckyBalls. That would have to be one heck of a ridiculously strong magnet.
how can bucky balls help understand the principles of geometry.
You can use BuckyBalls to learn the structure of various geometric shapes, from the simplest cube to the most complicated tetrahedron structure.
Is the gold edition worth a lot? And what is your best seller in this site? :)
The Gold BuckyBalls are simply gold plated, so they're only worth a tad more than the original BuckyBalls. As for our best sellers, you can check them out here.
Amazing!
Indeed.
whats the recommended age?
BuckyBalls should be kept away from all children under 14 years of age.
is the gold version of it really real gold?
Not solid gold. They are gold plated.
If you... put Buckeyballs in your purse, or wallet, can they wipe your credit card? (I heard magnets do that)
The manufacturer of BuckyBalls did many experiments with strength, and took care to make the magnets one step weaker than would de-magnetize even a standard subway card. But, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Make sure that you keep your BuckyBalls and credit cards a few inches apart.
is there more thing you could do with bucky balls
You can do a lot with BuckyBalls - make jewelry, invent a new game, build a paperclip or pencil holder, custom design magnets for your fridge, build molecular structures... I could go on and on.
The price are in dollars?
Yes, our prices are in US dollars.
Well I'm nine and i so badly want this thing (turning ten on august 27th) so and you've mentioned kids aren't allowed to have this thing. Am I old enough?
You are not, I'm afraid. The age limit on all of our magnetic toys is 14 and up. There can be absolutely no exceptions.
Are the gold ones real gold?
Gold Executive BuckyBalls are plated with real gold.
Hey guys, how come you recomend Bucky Balls for 14 year olds?
Because BuckyBalls are extremely powerful magnets that should never be handled by children under the age of 14.
This is not a question. I just watched 1,000 ways to die and saw that somebody swallowed them from using them as stress reliever and died after a few minutes. So people don't ask what happens if you eat one.
Very true. Swallowing magnets can cause severe internal trauma that can be fatal.
Why are there certain countries you cannot ship product to? trade embargo?
While that can sometimes be a factor, more often than not it's because our courriers do not service those locations.
These are neat. Do you think it is smart to buy both cubes and balls?
I think it is the best purchasing decision you will make all year. We look forward to your order!
Are they bi-polar?
BuckyBalls, like all magnets, have two magnetic poles.
If I have BuckyBalls near a device say, an iPhone, will The buckyballs break it?
Probably not. The only thing in an iPhone that a magnet can harm is the accelerometer, but it might be best to simply keep all magnets away from your iPhone.
so if i had enough bukey balls and i attached them to my hands and feet could i climb up a wall of something magnetic or would the buckey balls just stay on the wall? ( not that i would EVER do this but im just curious)
They'd probably just stay on the wall. BuckyBalls are strong, but they aren't THAT strong.
Does the Bucky Side kick come with a carying case?
The BuckyBalls Sidekick set comes with a case.
So are easy to use Bucky balls like to make balls and stars?
BuckyBalls are a very fun challenge, as part of the skill lies in getting the poles to line up correctly. I wouldn't necessarily call it easy, but it sure is fun!
Are buckyballs allowed on planes?
I can't think of any reason why you wouldn't be able to, but you might have a bit of difficulty with the metal detectors. I would keep your BuckyBalls in your checked luggage, or contact airport security for a more precise answer.
You know when you mess with pennies or certain metals and your fingers get that gross metallic smell. Do the BuckyBalls have that effect?
There is a faint metallic smell, but it's not as overwhelming as, say, a pocketful of dirty change.
im 11, can i play this? ( i dont swallow small objects)
Sorry, but we have to stand by the manufacturer's recommendation that these products be used by adults only.
I have ADHD, and I have a terrible habit of breaking the split-ends of my hair when I'm bored. Will BuckyBalls do a good job of distracting my habit or build a new terrible habit?
BuckyBalls are a great way to keep idle hands busy. Your stylist will thank us!
I'm 12, so could I not get this product?
That is correct. We strictly follow the manufacturer's suggested age limit.
I really like gummy bears and also magnets. Will you guys ever come out with a gummy bear magnet?
We don't have plans for a Gummy Bear magnet at this time, but we'll definitely keep it in mind!
What is included in the big book of bucky? p.s. yal'z are el la bomba
Thanks! The 77-page book is packed with tips, tricks, inspiring photos from master BuckyBallers, and step-by-step instruction. You can take a peek inside the book by clicking here.
Is it safe to use to bling out our animals?
No, I would keep BuckyBalls away from all animals. If they accidentally swallow them, it could spell major trouble for their insides.
In the video, it says it can be a math learning tool for kids. I thought one of the warnings was to keep it away from children?
You can use the BuckyBalls as a demonstration with kids without actually letting kids use them. Since BuckyBalls are tiny and strong, they should be kept away from children.
What happens if I freeze buckyballs?
We have never tried this, so I can't say for sure what would happen. We don't recommend doing it, mostly because we don't know what would happen.
can you use these magnets to play with the magnetic thinking putty?
Yes, BuckyBalls will interact with Magnetic Thinking Putty.
Is there any shop on earth that's sells them because I don't buy stuff off the Internet.
You might be able to find products in other specialty stores, but we can't specify which ones.
Where did you get the idea for this?
To be honest, we did not come up with the idea for BuckyBalls, but we're sure glad someone else did!
Is the gold plating real?
Yes, the Gold BuckyBalls are plated in real gold.
can this be used to control the magnetic putty?
It will work, but not as well as the magnet that is included with the Magnetic Putty.
What could you do with just 5 Bucky Balls?? I am 10 and a HUGE fan of vet19.com! I come on this website 2-3 hours everyday!!!!
The set of five BuckyBalls is to replace any that you've lost from the full or Sidekick sets. Thanks for being a fan!
Are the Gold Bucky Balls real gold?
They are not solid gold, but are plated with real gold.
Are replacements for the gold and black the same price?
We currently do not offer gold and black BuckyBall replacements.
OK, I know swallowing a bunch will be really bad, but what if you just swallow 1 buckyball? Can it still be bad?
We can't stress enough that you should not swallow BuckyBalls. Even just one.
How do you make a circle using Bucky Balls
Carefully. It may take a bit of practice, but you'll get it.
how many come in a packet and can you make an unboxing with all 216 because i see people unboxing it with 36 only
BuckyBalls come in a full set of 216 sphere magnets or the Sidekick set of 125 magnets.
okay , just wondering i know you guys ship world wide , but does it cost you charge shipping and handling.
There are shipping charges, yes. To find out what they would be for you, please click on the green "Calculate Shipping" link at the top of the BuckyBalls product page.
Why no mention of Buckminster Fuller?
We meant no disrespect at all to Mr. Fuller. History lesson! Richard "Buckminster" Fuller was an American architect (among other things) that developed many inventions, most notably the geodesic dome. Carbon molecules called "fullerenes" were later named after Mr. Fuller because they resembled his geodesic spheres. "Buckyballs" are another term for these molecules, hence the connection of Mr. Buckminster Fuller to our BuckyBalls Magnetic Toy. Also, Buckminster Fuller is an awesome name.
Is there one color that chips less than others?
Not that we're aware of. If you take good care of your Buckyballs, chipping shouldn't be a very big issue.
Why do you call the buckyballs 'rare'?
We don't. They're made of neodymium, which is part of the elemental family known as "rare earth elements".
I'm getting this for my 14th birthday...Am I still safe?
You're every bit as safe as you need to be. Just don't go sticking them up your nose or swallowing them and you should be just peachy.
What do you prefer/recommend? Buckyballs or Buckycubes?
It really depends on what type of structure you want to make. If you want to make more rigid structures, go with the BuckyCubes. If you want more complex and flexible structures, BuckyBalls would probably work best.
Can I use them as bbs?
No. BuckyBalls are slightly larger than conventional BBs and will jam the barrel.
Do these work well with Q men?
In what sense? They're both magnets, so they are able to attract each other.
Are Buckyballs ecofriendly?
They aren't ecofriendly in the sense that they're biodegradable, but there are recycling facilities which can take neodymium magnets.
Will you stock the Collectors Sets? (You know, the ones with the Nickel, Black, And Gold in one package,)
Or the coloured ones? Also, if you do stock the Collectors Sets... PLEASE make them less than 90 bucks.
I'm sorry, but we do not carry the Signature Collection sets at this time.
Can you take them with you on an air plane? Will they make it through security?
They will certainly trigger the metal detectors, but they should be okay in your carry-on or checked luggage.
my buckyballs wont connect whether it is triangles or hexagons when i try to put them together the wont stick. what can i do?
Don't forget that magnets have two poles, a negative and a positive. If the poles are not lined up correctly, they will repel each other.
Hi,i am getting the 216 set,i already own the 125 version should i mixed them up to create big structures? if so should i get them nickel since the ones i own are nickel?
It's nice to have a matching set, though it certainly isn't necessary. We also definitely encourage mixing multiple sets for bigger structures.
Can the plating wear off over time? and if it does wear down, then what would be the colour of the balls?
Over time, it is inevitable that the plating will begin to show signs of wear. Worn BuckyBalls have a silvery/coppery appearance.
How many karats do the gold-lined buckyballs have?
The gold edition has real gold plating, but it's not enough to really register on the karat scale.
Would the gold plated buckyballs last longer?
There is no discernable difference between the different platings, but with average use your BuckyBalls should last for a long time before wearing or chipping.
What happens if my dog eats them!?
Contact your veteranarian immediately. BuckyBalls are extremely powerful magnets and could cause serious harm if swallowed.
Are the BuckyBalls waterproof?
BuckyBalls are not waterproof and can begin to corrode if exposed to a lot of moisture.
If I do order this, will it really be shipped to me in one day?
We ship all orders received before 2pm (Central) on the same day we receive them, but how quickly they arrive depends entirely on the method of shipping you choose.
Can I use these as slingshot ammo?
You can, but it would be an expensive waste of awesome BuckyBalls.
Is it really gold?
Yes, the BuckyBalls in the Gold Executive Set are plated with real gold.
The black ones plating is made of what material?
Rare black nickel.
You say that the black that gets on your fingers is a cleaning solution. I was wondering if it will continue to get on your fingers or after you use it for a day or two it will stop. Or will water take of the cleaning solution?
Eventually, the cleaning agent will be rubbed off and you shouldn't be left with marks on your fingers. It's not harmful, so there's no need to try and wash it off before using the BuckyBalls.
where can i get these in malaysia?
Unfortunately I do not know of any specific stores in Malaysia that may carry this item. We can ship there, though!
These are the same thing as the "neocube", right? And also, do these magnets ever lose their strength and become weak? ...Or do they supposedly last forever?
Yes, BuckyBalls are similar to the Neocube. Neodymium magnets like BuckyBalls only lose about 1% of their magnetism over a 10-year period. The difference is not noticeable.
Will the plating come off because i have the gold set
No, the plating should not come off.
if you put buckyballs in magnetic putty, will they brake or get messed up
No, BuckyBalls can interact with Magnetic Thinking Putty without issue.
I just got mine and I was wondering whether or not they break or chip easily, do they?
No, they should not break or chip easily with regular use. They may get damaged if they are dropped or thrown onto a hard surface. If one of your BuckyBalls does chip, discontinue use of that magnet.
Do the coating on the executive black bucky balls rub off or chip off in any way?
No, the coating should not rub off. It is possible for it to crack or chip if the ball hits a hard surface with a lot of force. If the coating does chip, discontinue use of that magnet.
are you going to make different colored buckyballs like red or blue...PLEASE
I'm sorry but we have no plans to add different colors of BuckyBalls.
will the black or gold plating scratch off or even just come off?? if so do you recomend original instead??
The plating should not come off, but it is possible for it to chip should the BuckyBall be dropped on a hard surface. If a BuckyBall's coating becomes chipped, discontinue use.
are bucky balls safe to use near electronics?
While we have yet to hear of a case where BuckyBalls damaged electronics, we still recommend that you keep them at least a few inches apart.
So, if I buy the gold version it would be worth a lot because it's plated with real gold? P.S. Other sites = OK Vat19.com = AWESOMENESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Not really. The gold plating does have real gold in it, but it doesn't tip the Karat scale in a significant way.
Do they affect pacemakers or credit cards?
The manufacturer has not had any reports of such, but it's better to be safe than sorry. Keep BuckyBalls at least a few inches away from electronics or anything that might have a magnetic storage device in or on it.
Do you know of any buckyball designs that create a super magnet - like being able to attract a single buckyball from across a table (3 ft)?
Sorry, we haven't come up with a configuration that powerful.
Will the gold coating wear off?
Although this does not typically happen with BuckyBalls, gold is a relatively soft metal so the coating could wear off or dull over time.
would it be possible to purchase in bigger packages (with more balls)
Currently BuckyBalls are only available in the full sets of 216 magnets or the Sidekick set of 125 magnets. We are not aware of plans to create larger sets.
is the Buckyball the original of all those magnet balls or is it just another brand?
Spherical neodymium magnets have been around for a while, but not always packaged together like BuckyBalls. What sets BuckyBalls apart from others are the high quality and the included carrying case!
does the bucky ball chip?
It's possible for the nickel plating to chip off the BuckyBalls if they are misused or dropped onto a hard surface. Please discontinue use of any BuckyBall that has a chipped surface.
is there any stores were you can buy bucky balls instead of ordering them.
I believe BuckyBalls are available in some specialty stores, but unfortunately I do not have a specific list.
do they come with that neat little jar seen in some of the pictures on the wide web?
Unfortunately, the jar packaging was discontinued by the manufacturer and is no longer available. Instead, BuckyBalls now come with a square plastic carrying case.
How do these compare to the generic 5mm neodymium spheres on the market? TY! You're awesome!
Thank you! We've never had the generic magnetic spheres, so we can't provide a firsthand comparison. But we do know that the manufacturer of BuckyBalls took great pains to create a high-quality product. From what I understand, many generic sphere magnets have a thin nickel plating that is likely to flake off. This is not the case with BuckyBalls - the plating is thick, strong, and properly applied so that BuckyBalls function as intended. The manufacturer also did a lot of experimenting with strength, creating a magnet that is as strong as it can possibly be without putting magnetic storage devices and/or medical equipment in harm's way.
what are the black bucky balls plated with?
(materials)
The black Buckyballs are plated with black nickel.
Do you have buckyball replacements?
Sorry, but we no longer sell the BuckyBall replacement sets.
Are you going to stop selling bucky balls too?
We have no immediate plans to stop selling BuckyBalls.
How old do you have to be to buy these?
14 years or older. No exceptions.
Should normal use and proper storage/care chip the plating? Does that go for the Buckycubes as well?
Actually, proper use and storage will help prevent chipping. This does also apply to the BuckyCubes.
What is your email?
The best way to get in touch with us by email is to use our contact form.
Will Buckyballs have any effect on my dads iPhone?
Probably not. The only thing in an iPhone that a magnet can harm is the accelerometer, but it might be best to simply keep all magnets away from your iPhone.
I have a laptop and I'm afraid the buckyballs will wipe out the memory on it. Is that possible?
No. BuckyBalls are not strong enough to wipe a harddrive. In fact, the magnets used to read your harddrive are stronger than BuckyBalls.
Do buckyballs have a negative and positive side or do they just stick at any angle?
Like all magnets, BuckyBalls have both a positive and a negative pole.
i ordered a pack of 216 nickel buckyballs on a Friday and i was wondering do you guys ship anything on weekends?
We do not do shipping on the weekends (unless it's the busy holiday season). Your order will be shipped the following Monday.
So if it's real gold, wouldn't it be really expensive? I mean, it pretty much kills the economy and demand of gold these days, and if it flakes off that is a waste o' good ol' gold mate!!! Also, love ya jingle!
Actually, they are considerably more expensive than the regular set. Gold prices are determined by the market, not necessarily how much exists. I don't think anyone is going to miss the little bit used to make gold BuckyBalls.
Which would you recommend more? BuckyBalls or BuckyCubes?
Personally, I think they're both great. It really just depends on what kind of structures you plan on building. BuckyCubes are better for more rigid structures, where BuckyBalls are better for more complex geometric designs.
Why are BuckyBalls dangerous to swallow?
Swallowing BuckyBalls is dangerous because they can pinch/tear your internal organs. I really shouldn't have to say this, but please do not eat magnets.
Do you ship worldwide?
We do! We currently ship to over 70 different countries worldwide.
What should I get, I'm having a giant debate. Buckyballs or cubes.
Whichever you prefer! They're both really great products, so it's really up to you.
Are Bucky balls stainless?
Original BuckyBalls are nickel plated and are highly resistant to tarnishing or staining. That being said, they can begin to show signs of wear if rubbed together frequently.
What's the suggested age for using this product?
The manufacturer recommends that BuckyBalls only be used by adults ages 14 and up.
Do they bounce?
If you drop them on a hard surface they will bounce a little, but they are not "bouncy" in the conventional sense. Dropping them may also cause the magnets to chip or break.
Whats the sidekick for?
The Sidekick is simply a smaller set.
Does the sidekick have a free plastic carrying case?
The case for the Sidekick is identical to the Original, just a little smaller.
For the gold executive set, is the plating weaker and more prone to flaking of because gold is a softer metal?
We have not experienced or heard from the manufacturer anything to indicate that the Gold BuckyBall Executive Set is any more prone to chipping or flaking.
would it be cheaper to buy multiple sets of 5 until you had a full set or would it be cheaper just to buy an already together set
You'll save a little money purchasing the full set.
can i use these as air soft gun ammo
No, do not shoot BuckyBalls with any type of gun.
Do Bucky Balls crash your computer?
Neither we nor the manufacturer has heard of a case where BuckyBalls erased or affected electronic devices. However, it's always better to be safe than sorry, so we recommend keeping Buckyballs at least a few inches away from anything that might have a magnetic storage device in or on it, including computers.
how many b-balls are in a set
There are 216 individual BuckyBall magnets in each full set (Original, Black, or Gold). There are 125 magnets in the Sidekick Set (Original).
how long does it take to ship and and are they in stores besides vat19 P.S.best websight ever no joke
Thanks! How long it takes for the item to get to you depends on your delivery location. Please click on the green "Calculate Shipping" link on the BuckyBalls page and type in your shipping zip code. You will be provided with shipping options with prices and delivery times listed. We are not aware of specific physical retail stores that may also carry BuckyBalls.
what is the age range for bucky balls?
BuckyBalls are meant for adults only and should be kept away from all children.
what if you use this for an airsoft bebe? will it shoot? or will it work? well if you dont.....ok
BuckyBalls have not been tested in an airsoft gun, and we do not recommend doing so.
will they stick to the magnetic thinking putty i hope they dont well maybe i dont know PLEASE HELP!!!!
Yes, BuckyBalls will interact with Magnetic Thinking Putty. The putty will swallow them up.
I understand why the gold buckyballs cost 10$ more but why is the black nickel more expensive than the silver nickel?
Black nickel is more rare than regular (silver) nickel.
I am 11 and in the 5th grade and got some buckyballs for Christmas. I know extremely well to never put them in my mouth or nose and to keep them away from electronic devices, younger children, and pets. Is it ok if kids like me have some? I luv them!
I'm sorry, but we must abide by the manufacturer's recommendation that only those age 14 and up should play with BuckyBalls.
Do you think these BuckyBalls are a Little dangerous?
BuckyBalls can be dangerous in the hands of children (possibility of swallowing them), which is why there are multiple warnings on the product to keep away from all children.
Could you try putting BuckyBalls in the Magnetic Thinking Putty because if the neodymuim magnet could be swallowed up in the Putty so can the Buckyballs?
Yes, Magnetic Thinking Putty will interact with BuckyBalls.
It says 14+ but my 12 year old son isnt an idiot and is probaly smarter then your kids. Why isnt it recomended... Why would he ate them? he wouldnt.
It is a safety precaution. Due to their small size and great strength, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission requires that BuckyBalls be labeled as a product that should be kept away from all children.
do u ever have sales???
Not really, but you can get coupon codes by signing up for our twice-monthly email newsletter.
about in how many seconds(or what ever) does it take for the magnetic thinking putty to 'eat' a bucky ball
Magnetic Thinking Putty will swallow a BuckyBall faster than the included magnet, since it's much smaller. It takes just a few minutes.
Do buckyballs melt?
No, not under normal circumstances. It would probably take ridiculously high temperatures to melt them. Please do not try to do so.
Are there any store that sell buckyballs?
We are not aware of any brick-and-mortar stores that carry BuckyBalls. Vat19 can ship anywhere you like, though!
If you set the Bucky balls on a a hard wood floor would they roll around because I think I might lose them.
Yes, they would roll around just like any other tiny ball, so you need to be careful not to lose any!
How are buckyballs dangerous? I mean they are just super powerful magnets, right?
Right, but not a year goes by that we don't hear about a child or an adult with the brain of a child being seriously hurt or killed because they ate BuckyBalls. This is why we only sell them to people over a certain age.
What if I put this in a ferrofluid?
The ferrofluid would behave pretty much as you would expect. There are a ton of videos online showing just that.
I got buckyballs but the plating is red and I got them at the mall. Are you guys gonna sell colored buckyballs.
We do not have plans to carry the colored BuckyBalls at this time.
Can I cover my truck with these?
For the same amount of money you could probably just buy a new truck. Still, I imagine that would really cut into the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.
I just got them and realized it is quite hard to make shapes?
It will take a fair bit of practices to get the hang of BuckyBalls. Don't forget that they are magnets and therefore have two poles. If the poles don't line up, they will repel each other.
How does your bucky-balls work so perfectly in the video? When i try making a cube, the buckyballs make a bump, and then it turns into a circle.
Lots and lots of practice. The trick is making sure the poles of each BuckyBall line up so they don't twist on you.
If the gold buckyballs are plated with real gold, why doesn't it cost like $10000.00?...You are A boss even though jamie is the real one.
Because they aren't plated with $10,000 worth of gold. That'd make them a pretty hard sell if you ask me.
Do they harm your blood or yourself without eating them?
Not at all. As long as you don't swallow them or use them inappropriately they will not harm you in any way.
If put them down next to my laptop or phone would to ruin it? I would get these this is the ONLY thing i'm afraid of D:
BuckyBalls shouldn't damage your laptop or phone, though you should probably avoid unnecessary contact.
But can the bucky balls be bad for my health? I mean, im not going to eat them :P
As long as you don't eat them, or stick them in any other orifice, BuckyBalls are completely harmless.
i have used a really strong magnet like this one and it wiped out my camera...so should i put these magnets near any cameras or computers?
We would recommend keeping BuckyBalls away from any sensitive electronic equipment.
Are these Magnets made out of neodymium? If it is, are the buckyballs easy to make?
We aren't the manufacturer, but we can only assume that they have a pretty good handle on the production process. Yes, BuckyBalls are made of neodymium.
Why are they so expensive? I want them but my mum won't let me!:(
Neodymium is a very valuable rare earth magnetic element which is nearly as valuable as gold.
Do they have the gross metal smell? Also, will they be dangerous for mentally disabled adults?
There is a faint metallic smell, but it's not as overwhelming as, say, a pocketful of dirty change. We wouldn't recommend giving BuckyBalls to the mentally disabled, as the magnets are extremely powerful and could be dangerous if not used carefully.
For the black and gold bucky balls, if you play with them "like a stress ball" as you said in your video, could the platting scratch off?
Over time, especially if you use them very often, it's possible for the plating to begin to wear off. However, this will not affect the magnetic power of the BuckyBalls.
My sister and i have bucky balls and we love them but it is IMPOSSIBLE to make the cube, is there any tips on how to make it??
Patience and practice!
Can 13 year olds use this?
BuckyBalls are for ages 14+ and should be kept away from children at all times. The magnetic BuckyBalls are incredibly strong and should only be used by adults. This is a manufacturer decision and we stand by it.
I was wondering If you buy one buckyball package could you do everything shown in the demo videos
Yes, we only used one set in each of those videos.
Can i use them as a stress ball?
And how many come in 1 set?
There are 216 magnets in each full set. The Sidekick set has 125 magnets And yes, they make great stress balls.
Can I pay by cash?
I'm sorry, but we do not accept cash payments. However, we do accept money orders and cashier's checks. If you'd like to mail in your order with one of these forms of payment, you can find more information here.
is the carrying case in different colors
No, all styles of BuckyBalls come with an orange carrying case.
Could you post directions for how to make some designs on your site?
Check out our four tutorial videos on the product page. You'll learn how to make a cube and some other cool-looking orb-like structures.
I read a question that you've answered earlier saying that painting the Buckyball will reduce its magnetic strength, but if this is true then why there's special gold and black nickel plated version of Buckyball?
The gold and black-nickel plated BuckyBalls have the same number of coatings (and the same magnetic strength) as the original BuckyBalls (which are coated in regular nickel). Adding additional coatings of paint may reduce the magnetic strength by a bit.
will the gold rub off of the executive gold buckyballs easily?
It shouldn't. BuckyBalls are manufactured with the highest levels of quality control. But no one's perfect - every once in a while, a ball or two will slip through that may lose its coating after prolonged usage. If that happens, simply discontinue use.
Have you tried putting the buckyballs in the Magnetic Thinking Putty because BuckyBalls are neodymium and the cube in the Putty set is neodymium?
Yes, BuckyBalls work with Magnetic Thinking Putty.
Won't they shatter or flake off if you play darts with them on the fridge? 'Cause you said in a previous answer that they may shatter or pieces may break off if thrown at hard surfaces.
During our games of fridge darts, they did not shatter or flake off. However, it is possible that damage could occur.
Do you have to be from the states to get the buckyballs? cause i live in canada and i want to purchase them
Nope, we ship worldwide.
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU MAKE WITH BUCKY BALLS
Pretty much whatever you can think up!
can you melt a bucky ball?
That would probably take extremely high temperatures and be very dangerous. Please do not try to melt BuckyBalls.
Can buckyballs wreck iPods and phones and stuff like that?
Probably not. The only thing in an iPhone/iPod that a magnet can harm is the accelerometer, but it might be best to simply keep all magnets away from your electronics.
how do you dispose buckyballs?like if they start to chip and you dont want them anymore?
There aren't any special disposal tips, but you may take them to your local recycling facility and see if they have the means to process them there.
Why must you be 14 years old or older to have this?
There are numerous potential hazards with magnets as strong as BuckyBalls, especially if they're swallowed or otherwise used improperly.
Is the Gold Edition Real Gold
The Gold-Plated Bucky Balls are plated with, you guessed it, real gold!
why is the nickel expensive? its only 3 $ more than gold! is it as good as gold plated?
Black nickel is a relatively rare form of nickel which is comparable to gold in terms of value.
I am a 7 1/2 year old boy who loves bucky balls. I have more than 500 of them. Unfortunately, my bucky balls were covered in very small metal filings. Do you have any suggestions to get them off? thank you.
I'm sorry, but we don't really have any sure-fire way to suggest getting metal filings off of your BuckyBalls. Since they're tiny magnets, they're going to try very hard to hang on to any metal you put on them.
Golden bucky balls have real gold or not?
Yes, they are plated with real gold.
Are Buckyballs the best brand of these type of magnets?
I definitely think so, though I may be a little biased.
Are you guys going to have any sales or something?
We don't usually run sales, however we do send out coupons in each installment of our free email newsletter.
Would painting it a different color cause damage to it?
We haven't tried painting BuckyBalls, but we do not recommend trying it as it could affect their performance.
What would happen if I lit these magnetic BB's on fire? And what if it had poison toxic gas from the smoke?
They aren't really combustible, but we wouldn't recommend trying it. Besides, why would you want to ruin a perfectly good set of BuckyBalls?
What happens if you flush BuckyBalls down the toilet?
You waste a perfectly good toy.
Why so expensive?
Neodymium rare-earth magnets are extremely valuable and used in a wide variety of electronics.
I just love Vat19.com!!! hehe I LOVE YOU GUYS!!! And your videos Rock!!! I Love the Idea of Bucky balls and I plan to buy some soon!!! And my Question Is In the video is that the larger pack or smaller pack?
LOVE REAGAN!!! <3
Thanks! We used a full, original set of BuckyBalls during the making of our video.
What if small metal shavings got attracted to the BuckyBalls? How would you possibly clean it?
A customer previously suggested using adhesive tape to get dust and sand off of BuckyBalls. This might work for metal shavings as well. It's worth a shot!
Is it not allowed for kids 10 and up? :(
BuckyBalls are for ages 14+ and should be kept away from children at all times.
How many buckyballs are in a pack? Oh, do you know how this product got named, if not, that's ok, you guys are still awesome!
There are 216 sphere magnets in each full set of BuckyBalls. The Sidekick set has 125 magnets. I believe BuckyBalls were named after carbon molecules called "fullerenes" that resemble geodesic spheres.
how big are buckey balls
They are 5mm in diameter.
so is the gold one reeeeaaaall gold?
It is plated with real gold, yes.
Hi umm, I was thinking about buying this product for Christmas but I'm 11 years old........I'm not going to do this but...... What would happen if I put these magnets on or near my I pad?
P.S you guys rock!!!
I hate to break it to you, but BuckyBalls are not meant for children under 14 years of age, since they are so small and potentially very dangerous if swallowed. (To answer your actual question, though, it's best to keep BuckyBalls at least a few inches away from electronic devices like your iPad.)
Do the magnets have less power if you order the black or gold nickel plating
No, they have the same magnetic power as the original.
To remove magnetic grains from the magnets, use adhesive tape. It works very well.
Thanks for the tip!
Is the gold/black painted on, or is it plated/solid? I want to know before i get black ones and have them turn into silver ones!
They are plated with gold or black nickel.
Do Buckyballs have a warranty
The manufacturer has a 60-day warranty against BuckyBalls that, with reasonable wear and tear, crack, chip, appear misshapen and/or deformed, or are otherwise damaged in any way.
Hi, i'm David, I was wondering, you've probably seen all the different Bucky Balls, and i'm interested in the Gold ones. In real life, do you think they look the coolest? Are they worth the Extra Money?
That all depends on personal preference. The Gold BuckyBalls are the "flashiest", for lack of a better word. They've got that little extra somethin' somethin'. The Black BuckyBalls are more "executive".
How big is the cube of BuckyBalls?
It's about 1-1/8 inches.
is there a way to get an email when u get somthing new??
Yes, you can subscribe to our RSS Feed.
Why isn't there a silver color? I saw them somewhere and was hoping to get them for my birthday.
Check out the Original version. They are silver in color.
I bought five packs of buckyballs and i love them!!! Anyway, i keep them all stuck together when im not playing with them. Will they lose their magnet strength over time of being stuck together?
Not so much that you'll notice. Neodymium magnets like BuckyBalls only lose about 1% of their magnetism over a 10-year period.
Does it come exactly with 216 BuckyBalls ?
The Full sets (Original, Black, Gold) come with 216 magnets. The Sidekick comes with 125 magnets.
how do i mail in money?
We do not accept cash or personal checks through the mail, but we do accept money orders or cashier's checks. Please visit our Mail-In Order page for more details.
How many would it take to lift up a small car?
An excellent question, and unfortunately one that we do not have the answer to. Suffice to say it would be a LOT.
Are you guys gonna sell buckybars???
We do not have plans to carry Buckybars at this time.
Just ordered some. You guys are awesome. 1 problem: I have a chihuahua! Will these be safe to have around her?
You should keep your BuckyBalls away from all pets and small children. Swallowing BuckyBalls could be fatal, so please be sure to take very good care of them.
I got a set of bucky balls for Christmas and the coating is is starting chip at the poles on some balls.
It is possible for the plating on the BuckyBalls to chip if they hit a hard surface with enough force or are frequently rubbed together. The magnet won't be harmful to your health if it chips, but we suggest you discontinue use of any chipped BuckyBalls simply because the chipped edges could scratch your fingers.
Is there a North and a South pole for each magnet?
Yes. Like all other magnets, BuckyBalls have two poles. If the poles aren't lined up correctly, building can prove to be quite challenging.
I'm turning 15 soon and I was wondering if I could buy it for my birthday.
Sure, just as long as you have your parent's permission.
How do you clean BuckyBalls?--I read some other questions and it seems like they'd rust if I used water.
The manufacturer recommends cleaning BuckyBalls with a soft cloth. You can clean with water if necessary, but make sure you dry the magnets thoroughly afterward so they do not rust.
Are you guys going to make bucky-balls in different colors like blue,green,or red?
Sorry, but we do not have plans to carry the multi-colored BuckyBalls.
Can you make all the shapes in the demo videos with just one original buckyball set?
No. Some of the designs in the demo may require additional sets.
In the video, when you show the "documents" is that really 8 sheets of paper that say documents? 'Cause that would be a waste.
We are very environmentally conscious here at Vat19. We would certainly not waste paper, and all paper that we do use is recycled properly.
Are there different color BuckyBalls?
BuckyBalls are currently available in the original, nickel-plated color as well as gold and black nickel.
Multiple questions: Will they rust? Can they hold each other through your hand (like an ear piercing for example)? Do they work under water?
Prolonged exposure to water may cause BuckyBalls to rust or corrode. They are strong enough to attract each other through your flesh, so we have to recommend that you be very careful with BuckyBalls. Yes, they can also work underwater, but may eventually begin to rust or corrode.
BuckyCubes recently got announced. Are you planning to put them on this site?
We have not made an official announcement for BuckyCubes at this time, but do keep checking back!
are they metal?
Yes.
can the bucky balls get rusty?
Yes, if they are exposed to water or moisture for extended periods, they may rust.
can buckyballs help you not get bored all the time!?
Yes.
I've been playing with them for a long time, and it starts to leave silver glitter stuff all over my hands. If I keep this up, will all the silver coating or w/e wear off...eventually??
The nickel plating on BuckyBalls should not flake off. However, there could be leftover residue from the cleaning agent used to shine the BuckyBalls that rubs off on your skin. This residue is not harmful. If the actual coating of one or more BuckyBalls becomes rough or cracked, please discontinue use. In this case, please give us a call so that we can look up your order and arrange for replacements.
Do they come with that glass jar? Man, that is one cool jar...
The manufacturer discontinued the glass jar packaging. BuckyBalls now come with a square plastic carrying case.
will it be strong forever? because i bought some balls from another store (not vat19 products) and after 5 months its magnetic power is gone
Well that's bizarre! Our BuckyBalls should maintain their strength for a very long time. Neodymium (what BuckyBalls are made of) tends to lose only about 1% of its magnetism over a 10 year period. There are certain factors such as extreme heat and radiation that may cause that loss to accelerate, but just playing with them should not have an effect.
Will BuckyBalls rust?
Not unless you leave them someplace damp. BuckyBalls should be kept dry.
How often does the usps lost its package when shipping to singapore?
It's incredibly rare for USPS to lose a package, however if you would like the added security of a guaranteed delivery, we would recommend UPS.
What is stronger buckyballs or buckycubes?
They both have the exact same magnetic qualities.
Can you make a lot of different types of jewelry with the 125 pack of BuckyBalls?
You can make necklaces, rings, anklets, bracelets, and many more. The only limit is your imagination!
Can I just get the carrying case. I broke mine and need a new one.
Sorry, but we do not sell the carrying case separately.
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