I will be happy to give you my opinion on these questions. I love the fact that you are asking. I have a rather huge collection of beads (150+) and most of the glass beads are SRA as I prefer the artistry and unique design that is not offered by manufactured beads. So I have seen beads from Australia, The Netherlands, Italy and the US.
1) Do you have interest in independent artists beads or find most of the manufactured brand beads suit your needs in term of uniqueness?
Manufactured beads are fine, but they are very small (especially Chamilia) and limited colors and design. Pandora has a tiny offering and I find them boring and unimaginative. So my love is SRA beads where the hunt is as much fun as wearing them.
2) Do you prefer glass beads with lined sterling silver or that doesn't matter?
3) a) Regarding silver lined beads, do you mind if they are rivets glued with epoxy on each side of the bead ? or do you prefer beads that are mechanically lined (silver cored pressed), or that doesn't matter?
I would strongly urge you to NOT use rivets. The best bead artists use silver lining that not only appear nicer, but do not fall off the bead. I've already had one rivet loosen and fall off a bead. What is also important is that the silver is not overwhelming on the bead. I have a beadist in VA that uses silver lined and the workmanship is awesome. Even Pandora has a huge silver core on the outside of the bead that is way too big with that big PANDORA printing. Less is more and silver-lined the absolute best.
I also have seen artists start lining their beads because users prefer lined to unlined. I still buy unlined, but all the artists that aren't lining them admit they are looking to lining them because users prefer it (looks better with the manufactured beads).
b) Do you think sellers should mentioned the type of lining they have done (glued or pressed) - and in your opinion, are those 2 method equals in term of value of the bead ?
If a beadist uses pressed silver lining, they advertise it proudly because it is considered the best way. And, no they are no equal at all.
4) Would other metal colors (like copper for lining or caps to beads) be something you would consider in your jewelry or if only sterling and gold a must?
I would urge you to stick with silver for cost. Copper has inherent tarnishing that is worse than silver. You won't be able to afford gold. No SRA bead artist that I've seen uses gold. The price of gold makes this impossible.
5) Do you like different shapes of bead than the standard thin "donut" bead?
6) Is it important to you that your glass beads be same size or various size is not a problem?
I think that bead size needs to be stated so the buyer can judge whether a bead fits the look of their bracelet. Often, a beadist will group 2 similar beads together so a buyer can get two of same look and size. Some beadists state it's "necklace" or "bracelet" size to help. I think that as long as you state the size, you'll be fine.
and finally last question!
7) Do you bid on Ebay for artist beads or prefer Etsy with fixed price ?
I buy both places. I really do like Etsy for the instant gratification. I would urge you to not stretch out your bead auctions for a week. Three to five days is enough. Many beadists using Ebay list a mix of buy-it-nows with auctions so buyers can grab one right away if they want. I would try both venues to see which type works best for you. Look at what other lampwork artists are doing on both that works well for them.
I hope this helps. Don't hesitate to ask more questions. I have definitely seen what works and what doesnt and definitely what makes me want to buy a bead!
