When it comes to handmade jewelry, beads play a vital part. They are easily available and affordable
unlike precious metals and gems, such as gold, platinum, rubies, natural pearls and diamonds. You need
not be certified to make bead jewelry as long as you have a creative mind and have a good eye for
colors, shapes, and patterns.
There are a variety of beads available in multiple colors, sizes, materials, and shapes. Most of these
beads can be used to make both simple and intricate jewelry. In this article, we will discuss different
types of beads and how to use them.
1. Bicone Beads
Bicone beads are in the shape of two cones attached vertically. They are usually made from crystals and
are available in a variety of colors and shapes. These beads are highly reflective making them ideal for
sparkling jewelry.
Used to make: Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, and anklets
How to use: Pair them with smaller beads or crystals in complementing or contrasting colors.
2. Bugle Beads
Bugle beads are in the shape of a long and slender tube. They are smooth and are available in length
from 2mm to 40mm. They are ideal for bead weaving techniques, such as flat stitch or right-angle stitch.
Used to make: Bracelets, earrings, and necklaces
How to use: Pair them with seed beads or small round beads to accent their shape.
3. Cabochon Beads
Cabochon beads are mostly oval-shaped or spherical-shaped beads. They look like gemstones with a
shaped and polished surface. They are ideal for statement jewelry.
Used to make: Pendants and earrings
How to use: Frame them with metal bezels or intricate beading weaves, such as peyote stitch or ring-
angle stitch.
4. Crystal Beads
Crystal beads are glass beads with multiple facets. They are shiny and sparkling. They come in a variety
of colors and are usually spherical, oval, or cone-shaped. They are ideal for elaborate jewelry.
Used to make: Necklaces, bracelets, and rings
How to use: Pair crystals with complementing glass beads or bicone beads.
5. Cylinder Beads
Cylinder beads are a type of seed beads but have an identical form with straight, even sides. They are
ideal for a variety of intricate bead weaving techniques. They are available in multiple colors and sizes to
suit any pattern.
Used to make: Earrings, pendants, and bracelets
How to use: Complement these beads with other big beads or use them to make separate pieces.
6. Drop Beads
Drop beads are shaped like a tear drop with a hole on the top. They are made of crystal or metal. They
offer a curved end design. They are available in various sizes and colors to suit all jewelry patterns.
Used to make: Earrings and pendants
How to use: Use drop beads as the base for a pendant or an earring to showcase a long, slender design.
7. Duos /Twin Beads
Duos or twin beads come with two holes instead of one. They are usually oval-shaped or square-shaped
with holes on both sides. The square-shaped beads have a flat surface whereas the oval-shaped beads
have a curved edge. These beads are ideal to make unique shapes which won’t be possible with other
beads.
Used to make: Bracelets, necklaces, and pendants
How to use: Frame these beads in intricate peyote or herringbone stitch with seed beads.
8. Faceted Beads
Faceted beads are cut and faceted on all side making them shiny and luminous. They come in a variety
of colors and sizes. They are ideal to make bright jewelry accessories.
Used to make: Necklaces, bracelets, and rings
How to use: Use complementing colors in various sizes or pair them with glass beads for a sparkling
look.
This is not an exhaustive list. There are other beads available as well. Check the next article for more
information on different types of beads used in handmade jewelry.
