Bead Types Glossary!

Bead Types Glossary!

Dive into this fun glossary that gives you the scoop on bead sizes and types that sparkle in beadwork and jewelry-making. With a treasure trove of variations and fancy beads out there, each one opens up a world of creative possibilities. So, let your imagination run wild and experiment with different bead sizes and types to whip up dazzling and one-of-a-kind jewelry and beadwork projects!

Bead Sizes:

• Seed Beads: Tiny beads available in various sizes, commonly measured in aughts (0/0). The larger the number, the smaller the bead. For example, 15/0 seed beads are smaller than 6/0 seed beads.

• Bugle Beads: Tubular beads available in different lengths and widths, often used for fringe or structural elements in beadwork.

1. Pony Beads: Large, round beads with a wide hole, typically made of plastic or acrylic.

2. Delica Beads: Cylindrical Japanese seed beads known for their uniformity in size and shape, often used in intricate beadwork like loom weaving.

3. Gemstone Beads: Beads made from natural gemstones, available in various shapes and sizes.

4. Crystal Beads: Faceted glass beads, often made by Swarovski or other manufacturers, known for their high sparkle.

5. Wood Beads: Beads made from different types of wood, providing a natural and organic look to jewelry.

6. Ceramic Beads: Beads made from ceramic clay, often featuring colorful glazes and textures.

7. Acrylic Beads: Lightweight and affordable beads made of acrylic, available in various shapes and colors.

8. Metal Beads: Beads made of various metals like sterling silver, copper, brass, or pewter, used to add accents and shine to jewelry.

Bead Types:

1. Round Beads: Beads with a spherical shape, the most common and versatile bead type.

2. Cylinder Beads: Beads with a cylindrical shape, such as Delica beads.

3. Bicone Beads: Beads shaped like a bi-cone with two pointed ends, often made of crystal or glass.

4. Rondelle Beads: Beads with a flat, disk-like shape and rounded edges.

5. Cube Beads: Beads shaped like cubes or squares, providing a geometric and modern look.

6. Oval Beads: Beads with an elongated oval shape.

7. Tear Drop Beads: Beads shaped like teardrops or raindrops, often used in earrings and pendants.

8. Chip Beads: Irregularly shaped beads, often made from gemstones or natural materials, resembling small chips.

9. Heishi Beads: Disk-shaped beads made from shells, metals, or other materials, often used in Native American jewelry.

10. Bi-Bo Beads: Beads with two different colors on each side, allowing for reversible designs.

11. Tri-Beads: Beads with three different colors on each side, offering additional design possibilities.