925 silver, a noble material for DIY jewelry

925 silver is a certified alloy: it contains 92.5% pure silver, topped up with copper to give it strength. This title is an internationally recognized standard, very different from plated silver or silver-plated metal, which oxidize and tarnish quickly. For you, the jewelry designer, this means reliable, long-lasting pieces that add value.

Another significant advantage: 925 silver is hypoallergenic. It is suitable for sensitive skin and can be used for jewelry worn directly on the skin, including earrings. And because silver is a color appreciated by women and men alike, 925 silver pearls are just as much at home in elegant women's jewelry as in men's jewelry, or as an original, personalized couple's creation.

Easy combinations for all your creations

925 silver pearls are among the most versatile components in DIY jewelry. They pair naturally with :

freshwater pearls for a pearly, romantic effect
Natural stones (labradorite, amazonite, quartz) for a sophisticated, mineral look
Bohemian glass beadsfor colorful, graphic compositions
Natural wood beads for a warm, bohemian material contrast
Gold filled for trendy two-tone silver-gold creations

Whether you're a beginner or already have some experience, 925 silver beads can be adapted to your level. Beginners will appreciate their ease of use and the ease with which they can be combined with other materials. Experienced designers will find in our range more complex and original shapes (textured, hammered beads, ethnic motifs) for customized collections or more elaborate jewelry.

To take your creations a step further, we also offer 925 silver primers, 925 silver chains and 925 silver spacers to create complete, coherent jewels.

Buying in quantity? Perles & Co offers sliding-scale prices on 925 silver beads, ideal for designers who work in series or professionals who buy in bulk.

What to do with silver beads

In our tutorials, you'll find lots of silver jewelry with pearls:

Make a duo of matching bracelets for couples by mixing silver beads with natural stone beads. A silver or gold version, it's up to you to choose which one to wear.
Elastic rings are in! Make your own quickly and easily with the help of our tutorial. Personalize them with a mini charm or a silver jewelry insert.
Make a men's bracelet by inserting silver beads into macramé wire. Very easy to make, but it's sure to make an impression.
Make a micro-macramé bracelet with 925 silver beads for yourself or as a gift. It fits all wrist sizes thanks to its sliding knot closure.

What's the difference between sterling silver and 925 silver?

Well, there isn't one! Both designations refer to the same type of silver, composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other materials. It's the type of silver most commonly used to make jewelry.
To find out more about the different types of silver, please consult our technical data sheet.

How to make an elastic bracelet with silver beads?

Stretch your elastic thread
Choose your pearls and alternate between silver and freshwater pearls, for example .
Finish with a surgeon's knot and you have an original bracelet.

Is 925 silver hypoallergenic?

Yes,925 silver (or sterling silver) is generally hypoallergenic. Composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other materials (often copper), it is well tolerated by most people, especially those with sensitive skin. Unlike nickel, often responsible for skin irritations, 925 silver is an ideal option for jewelry such as pendants, bracelets and earrings. However, people who are highly sensitive to copper can sometimes react, but this is rare. 925 silver is therefore a safe solution for your DIY jewelry creations.

How do I clean 925 silver pearls?

Silver beads don't require much maintenance. You can clean them by gently rubbing them with a soft cloth. They will regain all their shine. To care for your silver pearl jewelry, store it in a case. This will protect them from light and dust, slowing down the oxidation process.
Find out more about our tips and advice for cleaning and caring for silver on our technical data sheet.

How can I prevent my 925 silver beads from turning black?

Silver 925 can naturally tarnish on contact with air and perspiration: this is a normal chemical reaction called oxidation. To prevent this, store your jewelry in an airtight case, avoid contact with perfumes and cosmetics, and wear it after applying creams. To restore their shine, in most cases a soft silver cloth will suffice.

Beads