Is it ok if I use nylon thread instead of silk for a pearl necklace?

Question

I'm making some necklaces with freshwater peals and I was wondering if using nylon thread instead of silk thread will take away from the value of the piece? I know traditionally pearls are strung on silk thread but the thing is its quite difficult to get over here.

Update:

Thank you. That's what I thought too. And now come to think of it, if I knot the nylon too tight it does kind of make the chain stiff.

beadbud · Accepted Answer

Silk thread makes the perfect knot. If you plan to string traditional and knot between the pearls, you would do better with silk.

However, nylon is stronger and lasts longer. If you are just stringing the pearls, especially seed pearls, nylon is a good option, it's often thin and strong. When you finish the string, don't knot it too tight or close. Leave a tiny bit of slack to allow the pearls to drape rather than be strangling tight.

bookfiend · Answer

Yes it would take away from the value, but, personally I don't think nylon would drape as well as the silk. And there is usually a knot between each pearl, but I don't think that is as important in fresh water pearls. 

Check out Walmart's craft section or any other craft place. There should be silk necklace "cord" with needle attached. Another option is regular stringing wire, tho I don't think that knots well either.

Try a search on "stringing fresh water pearls"

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Is it ok if I use nylon thread instead of silk for a pearl necklace?

2 Answers