Shamballa Beads for Bracelets, Macramé and Handmade Jewellery

Shamballa beads are decorative beads used for bracelets, macramé and other handmade jewellery. Depending on the model, they may feature crystals, a metal or polymer element, an imitation pearl finish or another decorative effect. They come in a range of shapes, colours and sizes.

They’re mostly used for making Shamballa bracelets. To make them, you’d usually also use braided cord and macramé knots. You can also make necklaces, pendants, keychains and other accessories with Shamballa beads.

What are Shamballa beads?

• A decorative focal point. Many models feature crystals, a metallic effect, an imitation pearl finish or other sparkling details that catch the eye.
• Made for macramé. The beads can be knotted in between the knots or arranged along the cord, depending on how the bracelet is built.
• A mix of materials. You’ll find models with polymer, metal and polyresin elements, along with a variety of decorative finishes.
• Plenty of sizes and holes. The hole matters most when choosing your cord, so always check the details of the specific model.

The secret to the signature look of a Shamballa bracelet is the contrast between the braided cord and the decorative bead. A plain cord shows off bright, sparkly beads, while a more colourful one pairs well with simpler Shamballa beads.

Types of Shamballa beads

• Crystal beads. The classic choice for eye-catching Shamballa bracelets, when you want more sparkle and a clear centrepiece.
• Imitation pearl beads. A softer, more elegant option for delicate bracelets, necklaces and other jewellery.
• Metal Shamballa beads. Great for higher-contrast designs and for pairing with metal spacers and other metal components.
• Polymer and polyresin models. These open up a huge range of colours, shapes and decorative effects.
• Shamballa pendants. Use them as the centrepiece of a bracelet, necklace or other design.

Shapes, sizes and holes for stringing

The main shapes are rounds, round and oval models, and a variety of decorative pendants. Bead sizes run from roughly 6 to 24 mm, with stringing holes from around 1 to 8 mm depending on the model.

Colours include clear, white, black, blue, red, green, pink, purple, gold, silver, graphite and many more. There are also models with decorative effects such as rainbow, mother-of-pearl and imitation pearl.

What are Shamballa beads used for?

• Shamballa bracelets. Their main use: the beads are knotted in or set between macramé knots on a cord.
• Boho jewellery. Combine them with leather, suede, natural stones or other beads for a more relaxed look.
• Keychains and small accessories. Smaller beads add a pop of colour or sparkle to keychains, bag charms and other small accessories.
• Decorative pendants. Larger models can take centre stage on a cord, chain or other suitable base.
• Gifts. A handmade bracelet or small accessory with a Shamballa bead makes a personal gift you can tailor to the recipient’s favourite colours and style. Browse EM ART’s gift ideas too.

Macramé technique for a Shamballa bracelet

The square knot is one of the key knots in making Shamballa bracelets. You work with cord and four loose ends: two in the middle that form the core, and two outer ones that tie the knot.

Shamballa beads go between the knots. Once you’ve slid the bead onto the core, tie the next square knot and tighten it evenly around it. That holds the beads in place and creates the signature macramé weave between them.

Choose a macramé and braiding cord to finish up.

Shamballa beads: frequently asked questions