Ask the Experts Cultured Freshwater Pearls Hole Size Q&A

I am trying to buy some cultured freshwater pearls for a necklace. The pearl size for the strand is 7.5mm-8.5mm. What hole size would you recommend to double strand the pearls?

Both the thread size and the hole size will be factors in choosing an appropriate combination of pearls and thread.

• For pearls with a 1.0 mm hole: This is a tight fit for most doubled silk sizes. It will only work if you use a finer thread, such as #3 or 0.5mm.
• For pearls with a 1.2 mm hole: Use #4 silk thread  for easy threading!
• For pearls with a 1.5 mm hole: These are the easiest to double string, especially if you are planning on knotting between pearls or plan on using thicker stringing material.

In general, for most 7.5–8.5mm pearls , however, #4 silk thread will be best.

- Elaine