Slice Beads

Frequently asked questions

• What is a slice bead?

  A slice is a thin, flat cut taken across a rough stone, leaving a free-form outline that follows the natural shape of the material. Most slices are polished on both faces and left with a natural or lightly shaped edge, then top-drilled so the bead hangs as a pendant or dangle. Because each slice is cut from a different part of the rough, no two are identical — outline, banding, and inclusions vary strand to strand. Slices are typically sold in graduated strands rather than calibrated sizes, and they read as the focal element in a piece rather than a uniform repeat.
• What sizes does Dakota stock slices in?

  Slice strands in this cut run in graduated ranges rather than single calibrated sizes. Current stock includes ranges like 7x9–12x15mm, 8x10–13x15mm, 10x12–13x15mm, and 6x8–11x16mm for smaller slices, plus larger statement ranges around 16–23mm and 20–24mm. The first number is the smallest slice on the strand and the second is the largest, so a single strand will contain a graduated mix. Exact dimensions and slice count per strand should be disclosed — ask before buying if a specific size or count isn't specified.
• What stones come as slices?

  Dakota's current slice stock leans heavily on patterned jaspers and agates, where the free-form cut shows off banding and matrix. Active stones include Jasper (multiple varieties), Zebra Jasper, Picture Jasper, Fancy Jasper, Crazy Lace Agate, Agate, Quartz, Green Aventurine, Apatite, and Sapphire. Material with strong visual character — banding, dendrites, inclusions, color zoning — tends to show up in slice form because the flat face is what sells the bead. Treatment varies by stone; check the listing for stabilization or dye disclosure, and ask before buying if it isn't specified.
• What jewelry works best with slice beads?

  Slices are focal-piece beads. They work as standalone pendants on chain or cord, as drops on earrings, and as fringe along the bottom of a bib or collar. Because each slice is unique and graduated in size, slices pair well with simple round or rondelle spacers that don't compete visually. Top-drilled orientation means slices hang vertically rather than stringing horizontally like a standard bead, so plan the design around the hang. They suit one-of-a-kind production and small-batch work where the natural variation is a feature, not a defect.
• How are slice beads drilled?

  Most slices are top-drilled — a small hole runs through the narrow top edge so the bead hangs face-out like a pendant. A few stones may be center-drilled or double-drilled depending on the cutter and the shape of the rough, but top-drilled is the default for this cut. Hole size on slices is usually 0.8–1mm, which accommodates standard beading wire, chain jump rings, and most head pins. Because the drill goes through a thin edge, slices are more fragile at the hole than a standard bead — handle gently when opening jump rings or wire-wrapping.