European Bead or Threaded Bead Bracelets from companies such as Biagi, Pandora, Troll Bead, Chamilia, Granchelli, and Pasha are quickly becoming the most popular way to customize and create heirloom jewelry, yet comprehensive information about this innovative jewelry trend is not readily available. The purpose of this guide is to inform you about the European Bead products available on the market and provide answers to a few questions many consumers have.

The Concept. Individual beads are strung on a specialized base bracelet to create a personalized piece of jewelry. Much like the traditional charm bracelets, European Beads are three dimensional and made from a wide range of materials. They feature a large diameter bore, or center hole, that accommodates the bracelet chain. The bead bore can be either threaded or smooth. For the most part beads and bracelets are interchangeable; however there are a few exceptions that are explained in greater detail later on in this guide.

The Bracelet. Bracelets from Pandora, Biagi, Chamilia, etc are available in varying lengths and materials. Popular styles have a beaded or lobster claw clasp and are made from Sterling Silver, 14k or 18k Gold, or a combination of both Silver and Gold. Prices range from $10 for an off brand bracelet to $500 or more for a solid 14k gold Pandora bracelet. Troll Bead bracelets are different in that the decorative double sided clasp is seperate from the chain and can be changed. Some manufactures offer starter bracelets in adjustable lengths. Necklaces and anklets are also available.

Two clasp holders divide the chain into three sections. This allows the wearer to customize the look of their bracelet and control the movement of the beads by using Bead Clasps or Cover Locks. Again, an exception to this is the Troll Bead system which uses a special blocker bead to control bead movement. Blocker beads are also now available from Pandora, Chamilia, and Biagi to use on both bracelets/necklaces with clasp holders and those without. See our Blocker Bead description below for further information.

The Beads.
European beads are available in many styles. Design options for a bracelet are limitless. Beads are made from solid Sterling Silver, Solid Gold, silver and gold plate, base metal, and glass. Some feature cubic zirconia stones, Swarovski crystals, precious stones, and so on. Prices range from as little as $4.00 for a base metal bead to $100 or more for a solid gold bead. As mentioned earlier some European Beads have a threaded bore while others have a smooth bore. This is mainly due to the individual "bracelet systems" that manufactures have developed. For example, the patented Pandora bracelet system uses threaded sections along the bracelet chain and threaded bores within their beads while LoveLinks bracelets do not use threads, but rather coat the inside bore of their beads so that they may easily slide onto the LoveLinks bracelets.

Clasps, Clips, or Cover Locks. Clasps, also referred to as Clips or Cover Locks, are hinged beads that open in order to be placed over the raised clasp holders along the bracelet chain. These specialized beads prevent other beads from moving along the bracelet chain and "bunching up". Clasps are not required on a bracelet; it is more of a personal choice. Some prefer to have only a few beads on their bracelet separated with Clasps, while others cover every inch of their bracelet chain with beads.

Blocker Beads are similar to regular spacers or other European Beads however the Blocker Beads have a rubber gasket inside the bead that grips the chain and prevents the beads from sliding beyond the blocker bead. These specialized beads do the same job as the Clasps, Clips, and Cover Locks described above but with greater freedom of bracelet or necklace design since they can be placed anywhere along the bracelet or necklace chain.

The Glass Bead. Glass beads are extremely popular. Like precious metal European Beads, glass beads are also made in a variety of styles and come in bold colors and beautiful designs. Some feature sterling silver inserts in the bore of the bead while others have silver plated inserts or none at all. Inserts are intended to protect your bracelet and the glass bead itself.

Getting Started

Choosing the right size. With European Bead Bracelets size does matter. As a general rule you should measure the wrist at the widest part and add 1" to determine the proper size bracelet. If you prefer bracelets to be snug only add 3/4". As each manufacturer produces different size bracelets it is best to consult with the manufacturer guidelines when choosing a bracelet size. Any reputable seller should be able to answer your questions and help you determine the proper size.

Compatibility. The most often asked question is one of compatibility. Will such and such bead fit such and such bracelet. Example: Threaded beads and Lovelinks beads will fit on a Troll Bead bracelet but Troll Bead beads will not fit on a bracelet from Pandora, Biagi, or Lovelinks. Click on the link below to be taken to our Compatibility Chart

European Bead Compatibility Chart

Cleaning. It is not necessary to remove beads from the bracelet to clean. The best method is to gently rub beads and bracelet with a jewelry polishing cloth available at most jewelry stores. Sunshine polishing cloths are a good brand. Do not use chemical jewelry polish, dip, paste, etc unless the manufacturer advises you to do so. These cleaners may harm the beads and remove any oxidization intentionally used to enhance a beads detail. It is not recommended to swim or shower while wearing your European Bead bracelet.

Tips on Buying European Beads on Ebay

• Check Seller Feedback, Shipping Charges, and Return or Exchange Policy. If you do not agree to any terms, look somewhere else. There are plenty of reputable sellers on Ebay offering European Beads and Starter Bracelets.
• It is important to remember that not all European Beads are created equal. There are some fabulous off brand bead designs available and an equal amount of poor quality junk. If you are not clear about what a particular bead is made from or its size, ask the seller questions. It will save you time and frustration.
• Brand names such as Pandora, Chamilia, and Troll only sell thier products through authorized retailers with a brick and mortar store. These companies have very strict pricing policies to protect all of their authorized retailers. While bargains are out there it is very rare to find an authentic Pandora, Chamilia, or Troll bead or bracelet for far less than the suggested retail price. Again, ask questions.
• Be aware of Fakes. Just like Louis Vuitton and Channel, European Bead Fakes are popping up all over the place. Only purchase your name brand European Beads from Authorized Retailers. Check feedback and ask questions before you decide to buy.

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