LPBeads 100PCS 8mm Natural Hematite Beads Gemstone Round Loose Beads with Crystal Stretch Cord Review (2026)

What is included in the pack

The listing includes 100 natural hematite beads at 8mm, along with a length of crystal stretch cord bundled into the same package, so the components for a simple stretch bracelet are present without a separate cord purchase. Retailer listings describe the beads as roughly 32 inches of strand length once laid out, with a 1mm hole size, and the stretch cord included separately measuring around 33 feet, enough to make multiple bracelets across a full pack of beads rather than only one. Buying beads and cord together in one listing simplifies sourcing for a beginner compared with matching stone size, hole size and cord thickness separately.

What hematite is as a material

Hematite is a naturally occurring iron oxide mineral known for its dark metallic gray to near black surface and unusually heavy, dense feel for its size compared with most other beading stones. That weight and reflective metallic finish are part of why hematite has become a popular neutral accent stone, since its gray tone pairs easily with almost any other bead color without clashing, functioning similarly to how a metallic accessory pairs with an outfit. The listing describes the beads as natural stone rather than the synthetic magnetic hematite sometimes sold under the same name, which is a distinction worth checking since synthetic versions behave differently, including having magnetic properties natural hematite generally does not share to the same degree.

Durability considerations

Despite its hard, dense appearance, hematite is a relatively brittle mineral and can chip or crack if dropped onto a hard surface such as tile or concrete, more so than tougher beading stones like agate or quartz. This is worth keeping in mind for pieces that will see daily wear, such as a stretch bracelet worn while doing housework or exercising, where impacts are more likely than with an occasional statement piece. Storing finished hematite jewelry separately from harder stones or metal jewelry, rather than tossed together in a single jewelry box compartment, helps avoid surface chips from beads knocking against each other.

Weight and how it wears

Hematite's density means a strand of it weighs noticeably more than a same sized strand of glass or lighter gemstone beads, which is part of its appeal for a substantial feeling stretch bracelet but becomes a drawback on longer pieces. A hematite necklace made from many 8mm rounds strung in sequence can end up heavier around the neck than most wearers expect from the bead size alone, so this material tends to work best in bracelet length pieces or as accent beads mixed with lighter stones in a longer design rather than as the sole material in a full length necklace.

Getting started with the included cord

Because stretch cord is included in the pack, a beginner can make a basic hematite stretch bracelet without sourcing separate stringing materials, simply threading beads onto the cord, tying it off and trimming the ends. Crystal stretch cord of the type typically included with bead packs like this one is elastic and does not require a clasp, which keeps the project simple for a first time beader. More experienced beaders who prefer a design with a clasp closure, rather than a stretch fit, can still use the loose beads with separate flexible beading wire, crimps and a clasp of their choice instead of the included cord.

Frequently asked questions