# Rope and cord

> Rope and cord (cotton, hemp, nylon, silk or waxed) make light, colorful and versatile bracelets, necklaces and pendants.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/rope-and-cord/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-08-11
- Updated: 2026-08-11
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/cuerda-y-cordon/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

---

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](https://www.711grados.com/en/leather/)
- [Silk and textile threads](https://www.711grados.com/en/silk-and-textile-threads/)
- [Seeds, tagua and nuts](https://www.711grados.com/en/seeds-and-tagua/)