Sometimes, nothing but sterling silver will do. In today’s Beading Lesson, we’ll focus on when and how to create an entire design from sterling silver – right down to the beading wire!

Beadalon™ sterling silver beading wire is made of miniature strands of .925 solid sterling silver wire that are twisted together. A thin, clear layer of nylon covers the 7-strand and 19-strand variations to prolong strand life and prevent kinking. It adds an extra level of quality for the beading purist.

Sterling Silver beading wire is best for lightweight, precious beaded jewelry. For designs that will receive more heavy-duty wear, it’s best to stick with nylon-coated stainless steel beading wire. Sterling beading wire is available in a variety of diameters, which you choose based on the hole size of the beads you’re using.

For an item to be considered sterling silver, the silver content must be at least .925%. Less expensive options include fine silver plated wire and silver colored beading wires. Choose sterling silver beading wire when only the only pure precious metal will do.

When using sterling beading wire, it’s important to maintain the same level of quality with all of your findings. A variety of findings come in sterling silver, including: this wire guardian that covers the wire where it attaches to the clasp, scrimp finding that takes the place of a crimp bead to make the clasp removable, EZ crimp clasp that crimps directly onto the wire and traditional sterling crimp tube with sterling crimp cover.

When designing with sterling silver beading wire, keep in mind that it is not as strong as stainless steel beading wire. Use sterling beading wire for lightweight, precious designs or as a decorative element rather than as the foundation for an extended wear design. Braid or weave several strands together to make it stronger.

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