Is wire acceptable for this project?

[cyndayco]

I need your expert advice on a labradorite necklace with a GSSP as the focal bead.


I was hoping to use Beaders' Secret, but the pesky drillholes in the labradorites are too tight. Is this wire okay? Is there another alternative?

 

[Pearl Dreams]

Is that regular wire or beading wire? I would definitely use multi-ply beading wire, but I would put a smooth sort of spacer on either side of the pearl to protect it.

 

[GemGeek]

Is that regular wire or beading wire? I would definitely use multi-ply beading wire, but I would put a smooth sort of spacer on either side of the pearl to protect it.

Exactly.

 

[ckrickett]

Exactly.

I add to agreeing. Is there also maybe a slightly darker wire you can use. I find when I use wires that are a contrasting color or tone even if the teeeensiest bit is showing I can get very distracted by it.

 

[Katbran]

I agree as well...the fine wire is the way to go. I make this sort of necklace all the time and only use wire as the beads can be a bit sharp. I use a bead either side of pearls as well.

Ckrickett makes a good point..unless those briolettes are going to pack in close so the wire doesn't show it might be worth looking at a black and see if that disappears. Overall ... Looks good !

 

[pattye]

Cyndayco,
Yes, I agree, the black or dark gray multi-ply designer wire probably will be best for this design. It is coated, so relatively soft against the pearl, and a little spacer will fill in the gap nicely at either end of the pearl, sort of a punctuation mark. Very interesting color combo, as sometimes labradorite has golden and warm flashes besides the blues. Gonna be soooo pretty!

Of course, I most often use Beader's Secret, but sometimes hole size and drape of the necklace work better for me on wire.

 

[kelluvpearls]

Soft flex in gold might look good too.

 

[Katbran]

I've never tried that Kelluvpearls ... I should order some and see what it's like. Does it discolour at all over time?

 

[kelluvpearls]

I think there's a plastic layer over the wire, let me check when I get home.

 

[Katbran]

Thanks !

 

[kelluvpearls]

Katbran no discolouring, but I don't really wear my necklaces often.
There's a nylon coating on the wire.
http://www.softflexcompany.com/SPD/...9-strand-gold-plated--80005BBC-1243980026.jsp

 

[cyndayco]

Wow, thanks for all the suggestions! I'm not sure what kind of wire this is; I have never used wire before. But I will definitely on the hunt for multi-ply and Soflex.

 

[Pearl Dreams]

I've used gold plated wire and it does not discolor -- it's covered with clear nylon.

 

[pattye]

Just wanted to mention that there are various brands that make this type wire. The 49 strand is the most flexible, and comes in various thicknesses. I've never had a problem with any of the brands discoloring. The nylon coating is smooth, protecting pearls from abrading.

 

[Pearl Dreams]

Generally the higher the ply count, the greater the flexibility, but sometimes the very finest gauges come only in a lower ply count.

 

[pattye]

Good point, Pearl Dreams.

 

[Katbran]

Thanks for the good intel ! I've never bought it or even looked at it as I thought it might flake or discolour..now I know better ! I might get some to just have it on hand.