CCB Beads for Bracelets, Jewellery and Accessories

CCB beads are lightweight plastic beads with a metallic coating. They may look like gold, silver, bronze, graphite, or antique metal, but are significantly lighter. That makes them practical for bracelets, necklaces, earrings, spring charms, keychains, and DIY projects.

What to know about CCB beads

CCB beads are made of plastic and have a metallic layer on top. That is their main advantage: the look of metal at a fraction of the weight. Well suited for statement jewellery that would be uncomfortably heavy if made from real metal.

The coating needs care — the most vulnerable area is around the hole, where the bead rubs against the cord, elastic, or metal findings during wear.

Practical tip: When making a bracelet, avoid placing a CCB bead directly against a jump ring or clasp with no buffer. Leave a small gap or add an intermediate bead between the two. It protects the finish around the hole.

When to choose CCB beads

Reach for CCB beads when you want a metallic effect but need the finished piece to stay lightweight. They are suitable for larger bracelets, long necklaces, earrings, and children’s crafts.

If you want more weight, a cooler feel to the touch or a more convincingly metallic material, take a look at metal beads and components.

If you like the metallic effect but want to explore more options, metallic plastic beads are another lightweight alternative with a similar surface finish.

Shapes and forms

CCB beads come in a wide range of shapes — hearts, flowers, clovers, rings, cylinders, discs, pendants and connectors. Round beads are the easiest to string evenly. Novelty shapes work well as a focal accent in a bracelet, pendant, or hanging accessory.

Larger CCB beads suit statement jewellery and bold accessories. Smaller ones are better used as spacers or for delicate earrings and bracelets.

For more depth, colour richness or a finer sparkle, glass beads are worth comparing.

What they are used for

Bracelets. CCB beads work well on elastic cord — lightweight and easy to string. Use a single metallic tone throughout or alternate them with simpler beads for a more varied look.

Necklaces. For longer necklaces, CCB is a strong choice — the metallic look without the weight. This matters especially when you are using larger beads or lots of decorative elements.

Earrings. Light weight is a real advantage here. CCB beads allow a more substantial shape without the accessory pulling on the ear.

Seasonal and gift accessories. CCB beads add a gold, silver or antique metallic accent to seasonal pieces and handmade gifts without making them heavy. They combine well with cord, ribbon and other lightweight components.

What to combine them with

For quick bracelets, elastic cord is the most practical base. For necklaces, keychains, and pendants, beading wire, cord, or sturdy string gives a more secure construction.

Practical tip: commit to one metallic tone — gold, silver, bronze or antique. Mixing several different metallic finishes in the same piece tends to look busy. For a more cohesive result, repeat the same metal tone in the spacers, clasp, and any pendants.

Delivery

Order online anytime. For payment terms, timelines and delivery options, see our order and delivery page.

What does CCB stand for?

CCB — also known as "copper coated beads" — is the commonly used term for plastic beads with a metallic outer layer. In practice, they are lightweight beads with a metal look: gold, silver, bronze, graphite, or antique finishes. A practical alternative to real metal wherever weight is a concern, such as in large beads, statement bracelets, and oversized accessories.

Are CCB beads made of metal?

No — the core is plastic. The metallic appearance comes from the surface coating. That is why they are lighter than genuine metal beads, but also why the coating needs protection from heavy friction, perfume, cosmetics, and direct pressure against metal components.

What is the difference between CCB and metal beads?

CCB beads have a plastic base with a metallic coating on the outside. Metal beads are made from actual metal and are noticeably heavier. CCB is the better choice for lightweight, voluminous, and more budget-friendly projects; metal beads are the right call when you want genuine weight and a more convincing metallic feel.