Seed Beads Seed beads from other countries are noted for their rounded edges and shapes. Size 11 seed beads are the most commonly used. These beads are 1.9 mm and can easily be substituted when the bead requirment is for a 2mm bead. Size 8 beads are larger and size 15 are smaller. The details about the finishes of these beads are not as available as those for the Delica beads, so again we stress that you TEST your beads if they are going on a garment that will be washed or dry cleaned on a regular basis.
Most beads hold up beautifully.
The ones to watch more closely are any silver-lined beads, red beads, or beads with a finish added on the outside. Fresh Water Pearls Fresh Water Pearls are pearls made by mussels instead of oysters, and are usually grown in rivers. The biggest producers of Fresh Water Pearls today is China. These pearls are available in almost every shape and color, and we try to keep the basic white and cream varieties in stock. Remember, the colors in every lot vary slightly, so always order enough to finish one project.