What they are

• Flat disc beads (sometimes called spacer discs, heishi discs, or washer beads) are thin, round, flat beads — almost like tiny coins or washers.

• Typically made from solid stainless steel (usually 304 or 316L).

• The hole runs through the center, just like a donut or washer.

Typical sizes & shapes

• Diameter: usually anywhere from about 3 mm up to 12 mm.

• Thickness: often quite thin — around 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

• Hole size: often between 0.8 mm and 2 mm, but you can get large-hole versions for leather cord or thicker wires.

• The edges can be:

  • Smooth and gently rounded (soft look)

  • Flat and sharp-cut (more industrial or modern)

✨ Surface & finish

• Stainless steel keeps its silver-gray metallic shine; very durable, hypoallergenic, and tarnish-free.

• Finishes include:

  • Mirror-polished (shiny)

  • Brushed satin (matte, elegant)

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

How they’re used in jewelry making

• As spacer beads: between gemstones, pearls, or glass beads to break up colors and add metallic sparkle.

• To add a modern, minimalist touch: a stack of flat discs on a cord or headpin makes a chic pendant or earring.

• To create texture: stringing many discs together makes a bead that looks almost like a heishi or vinyl disc strand.

• In memory wire bracelets or stretch bracelets, they keep beads evenly spaced.

• As end beads to finish a design cleanly, especially when working with leather or multi-strand wire.

➿ Why stainless steel?

✅ Does not tarnish, rust, or lose color
✅ Hypoallergenic — suitable for sensitive skin
✅ Strong and scratch-resistant
✅ Affordable compared to solid silver or gold, but still looks high-end

Design ideas

• Stack several flat disc beads between gemstone rounds for a modern bracelet.

• Use a single disc on either side of a focal bead for an understated accent.

• Make a pair of minimalist earrings with just a few stacked discs hanging from ear wires.

• Combine gold-tone and silver-tone discs for a mixed-metal look.

✅ Why people love them

• Small but powerful design element: simple yet stylish.

• Work in almost any style: boho, minimalist, industrial, classic.

• Great for men’s and women’s jewelry alike.

• Make designs look “finished” and professionally made.