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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