Please forgive my ignorance on this subject, but what are the pros and cons of stringing fine pearls on silk and knotting them vs. stringing them on high-quality nylon-coated wire?  I have heard that since silk can stretch over time, pearls need to be re-knotted every several years. Obviously wire would not have this problem. But, is there a problem with the pearls rubbing up against each other if they are strung on wire?  Would bead bumpers (I think that's what they are called) be a sufficient solution?

Thanks in advance for your help.
 

 Knotted silk or nylon is really the best method. I think nylon stretches less from age. Either one should be restrung from time to time depending on wear and use. Even the most flexible jewelry wire will not be as flexible as the silk or nylon. Even the most flexible will get some kinks.

Bead bumpers will keep pearls from rubbing and abraiding with wear. Jewelry wire IS easier to string than knotting but knotting is not really that hard to learn. (It does take practice and it does require very clean hands.)  Many local bead stores offer knotting as a service at so much an inch.

I'm sure others will have other comments and opinions.

Hi lindydonna, The main difference between silk thread and wire is that silk is highly absorbent while wire is not. Dirt accumulated in the drill holes due to the use of wire will result in quality pearls losing their luster. This problem is greatly reduced when quality pearls are strung on silk thread. When the thread becomes dirty or if spaces between the pearl and knot occur, it is time to restring the necklace. As Russ Nobbs had mentioned, knotted necklace should be restrung depending on how often the wearer wears it. There are a variety of materials to knot pearls. Pure silk could be used if you are stringing high quality pearls. Pearl silk is also available now, being a blend of pure silk and polyester thread. For mineral and imitation pearls, you could use polyester thread, nylon thread or a mix of both these materials, called "stringth" thread. Also, a fully knotted pearl necklace has the advantage of not spilling the pearls everywhere should it snap; only one pearl would slip out if that were the case. I hope this information is useful to you! All the best in your stringing endeavors.