Beads for use as a control, calibration and/or quantification probe in a mass cytometry assay, wherein the beads are labeled with a heavy metal selected from the group comprising osmium or ruthenium. Also disclosed are beads labeled with a heavy metal exhibiting a surface functionalization that allows for the binding of an affinity reagent, such as a metal-conjugated antibody. Methods are described for the labeling of the beads and usage of the beads for quantification of cell surface receptors or for a compensation of channel crosstalk in mass cytometry assays.