Natural beads for DIY jewelry: stones, charms and unique creations

Natural beads (natural stones, minerals, mother-of-pearl, etc.) are perfect for adding character to your creations. If you want to create a piece of jewelry that is elegant, timeless, and full of meaning, natural stone beads are an essential choice: each bead has its own unique nuances, veins, and luster.

At Gingerlily, we select natural beads for DIY jewelry that are suitable for assembly: regular dimensions, drillings compatible with findings, and a wide choice of shapes (round, faceted, chip, heishi, drop…) to easily create necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

Why choose natural pearls for your creations?

Natural pearls are distinguished by their aesthetics and versatility. They can be combined with a fine chain as well as with more prominent findings, and fit into a wide variety of styles: minimalist, bohemian chic, lucky charm, vintage or contemporary.

• A unique result : each pearl displays natural variations in color and texture.
• A timeless style : easy to wear every day, alone or layered.
• Great versatility : bracelets, necklaces, earrings, rings, accessories.
• A “symbolic” dimension : ideal for personalized jewelry and gift creations.

What natural pearls can be found in this selection?

Here you will find different families of beads to satisfy your creative desires:

• Natural stone beads : amethyst, quartz, aventurine, labradorite, agate, howlite, jasper, etc.
• Faceted beads : for a luminous, refined and very “jewelry-like” effect.
• Chips & spangles : perfect for a bohemian, organic style, or a talismanic jewel.
• Heishi beads / rondelles : great for colorful bracelets, summer necklaces and stacking compositions.
• Special shapes : drops, ovals, rectangles, irregular beads for a strong piece.

How to choose your natural pearls wisely?

For a clean assembly and a durable piece of jewelry, check these criteria before assembling your thread:

• Size (mm) : the larger the pearl, the more the piece of jewelry becomes a “statement”.
• The drilling : it must be compatible with your thread (nylon, cable, elastic) or your findings.
• The shape : round for a classic look, faceted for shine, chips for a natural look.
• The material combination : stainless steel for a modern and durable style, gold for a warmer look.

Tip: alternate natural pearls and components (spacers, charms, medals) to structure your arrangement and highlight the stone.

DIY project ideas using natural beads

To inspire you, here are some simple ideas to create, with a very "jewelry-like" result:

• Elastic bracelet with natural stones : a composition of round or heishi beads, with a more prominent central bead.
• Talisman necklace : a faceted stone combined with a pendant and a few spacers for a lucky charm style.
• Delicate earrings : a teardrop or faceted pearl on an eyelet stud, minimalist finish.

Creation scenario: On a delicate chain, add a small natural stone (faceted or teardrop-shaped) and a symbolic charm. You'll have a personalized necklace, easy to give as a gift, that can be worn alone or layered.

Access the right collections directly

Explore our selections to quickly choose the perfect pearls for your style:

• View all natural stone beads
• Discover faceted natural pearls
• Heishi beads & stone rondelles
• Natural stone chips and shards
• Pair with stainless steel findings

👉 See all our natural beads for DIY jewelry : access the collection

FAQ — Natural Beads for DIY Jewelry

Which natural pearl should I choose for an easy-to-make bracelet?
Round beads (6–8 mm) or heishi beads are ideal: they are easy to thread and give a very regular result.

How to choose the thread for natural pearls?
For a bracelet: elastic thread or cable depending on the style. For a necklace: coated cable or thread suitable for the holes and the weight of the beads.

Are all natural pearls the same?
No, that's normal: the stones have natural variations in color and veining, which makes each piece of jewelry unique.

Can natural stones be mixed with gold/stainless steel findings?
Yes. Stainless steel provides a modern and durable look, while gold adds warmth and contrast.

Which DIY project best showcases a stone?
A necklace with a central pearl (drop or faceted) and a fine chain: the stone becomes the focal point of the jewelry.

Other natural pearls are available in the Gingerlily shop.
Photos are for illustrative purposes only and are not contractually binding.