Miyuki makes some hexagonal metal beads that are 1.4mm x 0.9mm; you
usually use two of them to fit in the space taken up by a Miyuki
Delica (cylinder) bead. They’re electroplated with precious metal;
there are several colors of gold, silver, rhodium, copper, nickel,
etc. I’ve used them. They are WEENSY…a beading term :)…
There are very small metal beads available…1 or 2 or 3 mm, I’ve got
them in gold filled and sterling, but they are seamed and hollow, not
really seed bead shaped.
But here are some possible sources:
Check out General Bead at www.genbead.com. If you can’t find it on
their website, give Jolie a call at their National City store. She
knows everything. 619-336-0100.
There might also be some vintage beads that are metal but not “cuts”
as you mention. A good resource for vintage beads is Empyrean Beads at
www.empyreanbeads.com/, 206-937-4146, talk to Sammie.
I’m only mentioning two resources that I like personally and do
business with. Check out Beadnet www.mcs.net/~simone/beadnet.html,
where you can find just about everything bead related.
Amy Karash fine craft beadwork 610-354-5349 days