Different Bead Shapes

Beads come in a variety of shapes, each with unique characteristics that can influence the look and feel of jewellery or craft projects.

Here are some of the most common bead shapes:

Basic Shapes

Round – The most classic and popular shape, round beads are smooth and symmetrical, often used in all types of jewellery and beading projects.

Oval (Rice) – These are elongated round beads, resembling a rice grain. They add a sleek, elegant look.

Tube (Cylinder) – These long, straight beads are great for structured designs. Delica beads, a type of cylinder bead, are known for their uniformity.

Cube (Square) – These beads have a boxy shape and add a geometric element to designs.

Disc (Heishi) – Flat, circular beads often made from shells, stone, or clay, traditionally used in Native American and African jewellery.

Barrel – Slightly rounded but elongated, these beads have a chunky look.

Faceted & Geometric Shapes

Bicone – A bead with two conical shapes meeting in the middle, often faceted to create sparkle.

Briolette – A pear-shaped bead, usually faceted and drilled at the top for dangle earrings and pendants.

Hexagonal – Six-sided beads, often faceted, used for a unique, angular appearance.

Pyramid & Cone – These beads taper to a point, adding texture and visual interest.

Specialty Shapes

Dagger – Long, pointed beads that create a fringe-like effect when strung together.

Teardrop – A droplet-shaped bead often used in earrings and pendants.

Lentil – Flat and round with a slight convex shape.

Leaf – Beads shaped like leaves, often with intricate veining.

Flower – Floral-shaped beads used for decorative and boho-style jewellery.

Star & Heart – Cute, whimsical beads in the shape of stars or hearts, common in playful designs.

Seed Beads & Tiny Shapes

Seed Beads – Tiny round beads used for intricate beadwork and weaving.

Bugle Beads – Long, narrow tube beads often used in embroidery.

Drop Beads – Small, rounded teardrop shapes that dangle when strung.

Natural & Organic Shapes

Nugget – Irregular, raw-looking beads often found in stone or glass.

Chip Beads – Small, irregularly shaped fragments, usually of gemstone material.

Coin – Flat, circular beads that resemble coins.

Button – Rounded and slightly flattened with one or two holes.

Each of these bead shapes serves different aesthetic and functional purposes in jewellery-making and crafts.