What are saucer-shaped beads?

• These beads look like tiny flying saucers:

  • Domed or slightly puffed on both sides

  • Tapered toward the center hole

  • Wider in diameter than they are thick

• Imagine a bead flattened in the middle but gently curved at the edges.

• Sometimes also called bicone beads if the sides taper more sharply, but saucer beads usually have softer curves.

Typical sizes & proportions

• Diameter: common sizes are about 4 mm to 10 mm.

• Thickness (height): usually about half the diameter or less, so they look flatter than round beads.

• Hole size: typically around 0.8–1.5 mm for fine stringing wire or cord; sometimes larger if meant for leather cord or thicker designs.

✨ Material & finish

• Made from solid stainless steel (usually 304 or 316L):

  • Durable, tarnish-resistant, hypoallergenic

  • Keeps its bright metallic color and shine for years

• Finish options:

  • Mirror-polished shiny silver

  • Brushed matte (more subtle look)

  • Gold-tone, rose gold, or black IP plated for variety

• Surface can be:

  • Smooth and plain (most common)

  • Sometimes lightly textured or hammered for extra sparkle

Uses in jewelry making

• Spacers: placed between gemstone, pearl, or glass beads to:

  • Prevent beads from rubbing

  • Add metallic highlights

• Accents: especially in minimalist or modern designs — a single saucer bead on each side of a focal bead frames it beautifully.

• Balancing designs: the slightly domed shape softens the transition between larger and smaller beads.

• On headpins or eyepins: create beaded dangles or earrings.

• In beaded chains: add rhythm and interest without adding weight.

Why stainless steel?

✅ Stronger than brass, copper, or plated base metals
✅ Won’t tarnish or change color
✅ Hypoallergenic — suitable for sensitive skin
✅ Keeps its shape and finish, even in everyday wear

Style feel

• Saucer shape has a softer, organic look than plain discs or square spacers.

• Adds subtle curves and flow to a piece — looks especially good paired with round beads.

• Works equally well in:

  • Boho designs with natural stones

  • Classic pearl necklaces

  • Modern minimalist or industrial-style pieces

✅ Why people love them

• Small but visually interesting: they catch light nicely.

• Make jewelry look professional and balanced.

• Affordable way to add metallic shine without overwhelming the design.

• Blend easily with both silver and gold color schemes (especially if you use gold-tone plated versions).