Metal Beads for Stringing and Jewellery Making

Our jewellery-making metal beads work well for bracelets, necklaces, small seasonal charms and decorative accessories. EM ART offers a wide range of shapes – round beads, cylinders, discs, hearts, flowers, stars and other figures for handmade jewellery.

Choose a design based on shape, size, material and hole diameter. Metal beads pair well with natural stones, wooden beads, cord or beading thread. If you’re making a series of pieces, check how many beads come in each pack.

Types of metal beads for jewellery making

Metal beads vary in shape, size, material and finish. Depending on the style you’re going for, you can choose:

• Classic and geometric shapes. Round beads, ovals, cylinders, tubes, discs and flat tiles. They’re ideal for clean, minimal bracelets and necklaces, or for alternating with other decorative elements.
• Decorative figures and symbols. Hearts, flowers, butterflies, stars, four-leaf clovers, animals and ornaments. Use them for personalised gifts, seasonal charms and themed accessories.
• Metals and decorative finishes. Silver-tone, gold-tone, antique-finish and other metallic shades. The colour doesn’t always tell you what the bead is made of, so check the material in the individual product description.

For even more options, browse our main metal beads category, where you’ll find additional shapes and components for bracelets, necklaces and other accessories.

How to choose the right metal beads

Start by thinking about what you’ll use the beads for. Then match their weight, size and hole to the cord or thread you’re stringing them on.

• For bracelets. Choose lighter round beads, cylinders or discs with smooth edges. For stretch bracelets, use elastic cord of the right thickness and make sure the holes aren’t too narrow.
• For necklaces. Combine geometric or textured beads with natural stones and wooden elements. With heavier metal beads, use a strong enough base and compatible end caps – small metal fittings that finish off the cord ends and attach the clasp.
• For seasonal charms. Hearts, flowers, stars and other symbols make an eye-catching accent on red-and-white cords for small spring charms. If you’re making a larger batch, check the pack size.
• For earrings and small accessories. Choose lightweight beads and match their size to the earring findings (hooks, studs and other hardware for making earrings) or other connecting components.

Care, storage and safety

Store metal beads in a dry place, in a compartment box. Sort them by shape, size and finish to prevent scratches and to find exactly what you need more easily. Keep them away from moisture, perfume and harsh cleaning products. Clean finished jewellery with a soft, dry cloth – never anything abrasive.

Before wearing, check that knots, clasps and connectors are secure. If you’re sensitive to certain metals, including nickel, check the composition of the specific item. Small metal beads are not suitable for young children to play with because of the risk of swallowing or choking, and should be kept out of their reach.

Frequently asked questions about metal beads for stringing