Rope and cord

Rope and cord are the simplest and most versatile materials in non-metal jewelry. A cord can be the entire necklace or just the support of a pendant, and with knots, braiding and macramé it turns into bracelets, anklets and necklaces full of color.

Properties #

• Natural types: cotton, hemp, jute, linen and silk: soft, biodegradable and handmade-looking.
• Synthetic types: nylon, polyester and paracord: very strong, available in many colors and barely absorbent.
• Waxed cord: cotton, linen or polyester coated in wax for a firmer, more water-resistant feel.
• Thickness: from under 1 mm (fine thread) to 5-6 mm (thick rope); choose it according to the weight of the pendant.
• Finishing the ends: synthetic fibers are sealed with heat; natural ones are finished with knots, glue or metal end caps.

Uses in jewelry #

• Macramé and braided bracelets, or adjustable sliding-knot bracelets.
• Necklaces with a stone, metal or shell pendant.
• Anklets, cord rings and keychains.
• Cords and closures for mixed jewelry with beads, leather and metal.

Pros and cons #

Advantages #

• Light, comfortable and inexpensive.
• Available in many colors and thicknesses.
• Can be worked without special tools.

Limitations #

• It wears out with friction, sweat and water.
• Colors can bleed when wet.
• It does not support heavy loads: choose the thickness for the pendant.

Care and cleaning #

• Avoid wearing it in the shower, sea or pool.
• If it gets dirty, hand-wash with mild soap and air-dry.
• Store it dry and away from direct sun so the color does not fade.
• Replace it when it frays: a worn cord can snap and drop the pendant.

See also #

• Leather
• Silk and textile threads
• Seeds, tagua and nuts