To buy quality beads in Paris, head to specialized jewelry supply shops like Perles Corner, boutique-workshop at 11 rue Oberkampf (Paris 11th): selected natural stones (certified in Gemmology), jewelry findings made in Europe and gilded with 24K fine gold, Bohemian and Miyuki beads. But before choosing your shop, you need to know how to recognize quality. That’s exactly what we explain here.

It all comes down to three criteria. Once you know them, you can’t go wrong.

• 1. The authenticity of the stones. A “natural stone” must truly be one. Undisclosed dyeing, glass sold as gem, fanciful names: the market is full of approximations. The right reflex: buy from a shop able to identify the material and honestly tell you what you are buying — genuine stone, possible treatment, exact name. This is where gemmology expertise makes the difference: with us, every reference in the natural stones catalog is checked and selected by Sébastien, co-founder certified in gemmology.
• 2. The quality of the gilding. This is THE invisible difference at purchase… and obvious after three weeks of wear. A standard gold-plated jewelry finding tarnishes quickly. A jewelry finding gilded with 24K fine gold or genuine 3-micron gold-plated keeps its shine. Always ask: what gilding, what origin? If the answer is unclear, move on. Our 24K Premium Gold ranges are made in Europe, with a gilding partner for over 10 years — and we tell you this in black and white.
• 3. Consistency. Well-sized beads, clean holes, consistent colors from one batch to another. This is what sets genuine Bohemian beads (Czech glass, centuries-old craftsmanship) or Japanese Miyuki beads apart from low-cost imitations that ruin a jewelry creation.

Both, depending on your project.

In-store, you can touch the materials, compare colors in real light, and above all, leave with advice: which thread for which drilling, which clasp for which chain. For natural stones — each strand unique — seeing before buying makes all the difference.

Online, you have access to the entire catalog (over 6,000 references with us), the free tutorials linked to each creation, and you order at your own pace. With free in-store pickup (click & collect), you get the best of both.

Not all beads are suitable for every piece of jewelry. Here are the right choices depending on what you want to create.

• For a bracelet with natural stones, choose round beads from 6 to 8 mm, mounted on 0.5-0.8 mm elastic thread or on macramé thread with a sliding knot. Amazonite, lapis lazuli, or labradorite offer beautiful naturally varied colors.
• For a necklace, Bohemian beads are ideal: light, luminous, available in dozens of shapes (drops, faceted, olives). Mounted on nylon thread, silk thread, or chain, they create refined pieces from the very first creation.
• For weaving, there’s only one choice: Miyuki beads. Their perfect sizing is essential for even weaving — peyote, brick stitch, or loom. It’s a small investment for an unmatched result.
• For macramé, combine Linhasita threads and small drilled natural stones: it’s the easiest technique to start with, requiring no tools.

Both in-store and online, each tutorial specifies exactly which beads and threads are used — everything you need to start without mistakes.

Since 2012, our 11th arrondissement boutique-workshop has been built on a simple belief: creating your own jewelry should be accessible, without compromising on quality.

Here’s what you’ll find at 11 rue Oberkampf:

• Authentic natural stones — cabochons, bead strands, pendants — chosen by a certified Gemology expert
• Jewelry findings Made in Europe plated with 24K fine gold, 925 sterling silver, 
• Pendants and jewelry findings in stainless steel
• Bohemian and Miyuki beads selected from historic manufacturers
• Personalized advice: the team helps you compose your project, from choosing the thread to the clasp
• DIY jewelry workshops to learn techniques, among beginners or friends (bachelorette parties welcome!)

The store is open Tuesday to Friday from 11am to 2pm and 3pm to 6:45pm, and Saturday from 11am to 7pm without interruption. Metro Oberkampf or Filles du Calvaire.

Less than you might think. Individual beads start at a few cents, a strand of Bohemian beads costs between €2 and €6, and a basic tool kit (three pliers) remains very affordable. For a first bracelet with natural stones, count on €10 to €20 of supplies — and the immense satisfaction of saying “I made it myself.” Of course, it all depends on the materials chosen and the project.

Our Inspiration - Tutorials section gives you precise shopping lists, tutorial by tutorial.