We string our black diamonds on Beadalon purchased through Rio
Grande, 6lb. , .010"od. on page 397
The Beadalon needs to be very thin because the holes in the beads
are tiny!
Laurie
If you plan to use a jewelry wire, please do yourself a favor and
investigate Softflex. They make two types of jewelry wire, one for
normal bead stringing and another for finer work. You would need the
finer one. It is far superior to Tigertail and any other jewelry wire
on the market as far as draping and flexibility is concerned, and it
is available in gold and silver colors. (No affiliation with the
company.)
If you do choose to use silk and knot between the beads, it just
about guaranteed that the sharp edges of the diamond bead will
eventually cut through the silk. And, having the piece restrung on a
regular basis is a part of owning a fine strand of precious pearls.
Are you prepared to tell your customer "here’s your necklace, and oh
by the way, you’ll have to have it restrung every year to two years."
That is what’s recommended with hand knotted pearls.
Please let us know what you decide to do.
Betty
I agree - Softflex is much better than fishing line, or Beadalon. I
have used Softflex for years and rarely have anything break or fall
apart.
No affiliation with the company.
I agree - Softflex is much better than fishing line, or Beadalon. I have used Softflex for years and rarely have anything break or fall apart.
The inherent characteristics of the beads used (glass vs gemstone)
dictates which Softflex product is appropriate. These products have
been carefully engineered to provide for such varying requirements.
Check out the Softflex site: http://www.softflexcompany.com/ and
inquire about the size and type suited to your diamond beads. I have
found the people associated with Softflex a pleasure to work with.
I, too, have no affiliation with the company aside from happy
customer.
Pam Chott
www.songofthephoenix.com