You guessed it, the word Miyuki comes from Japan. It is derived from the words "mi" which means "beautiful" and "yuki" which means "snow". Miyuki beads were created by Mr. Masaki Kawaguchi, a passionate craftsman who founded the Miyuki Co. in 1949 in Hiroshima. At the time, commercially available beads were often irregular in size and shape, making it difficult to achieve precise, polished designs. This is what prompted him to develop a process to obtain uniform, perfectly shaped pearls. 
The development of Miyuki beads is the result of a combination of innovation and traditional craftsmanship. Mr. Kawaguchi and his team worked to refine glassworking techniques to create beads of consistent size, shape and quality. Beads have gained popularity not only in Japan, but also internationally, as artisans and jewelers have recognized their value in creating intricate and detailed beads.
Why are Miyuki beads a good choice for jewelry such as earrings and rings?
- Consistency: Miyuki beads are known for their precise size and shape. This consistency makes them ideal for complex beadwork, as it ensures that the beads fit together perfectly and create a professional finish.
- Wide Variety: Miyuki offers an extensive range of colors, finishes and shapes, allowing jewelry designers to explore countless creative possibilities. The variety of options makes it easy to find beads that fit a particular design vision. The one we use most in Marakame jewelry is a cylindrical bead called Delica.
- Durability: The use of high-quality glass and meticulous manufacturing processes ensures the durability of Miyuki beads. They can withstand regular wear and tear without losing their color or finish.
- Uniform Holes: Precisely drilled holes in Miyuki beads allow them to be simply threaded onto various materials such as wires, wires and cords, making the jewelry making process easier and more enjoyable.
- Professional Appearance: The uniformity and quality of Miyuki beads gives the jewelry a polished, professional appearance. This is particularly important for complex designs where uniformity is paramount.
- Versatility: Miyuki beads are versatile and can be used in a wide range of jewelry making techniques, including bead weaving, stringing, embroidery, and more.
