Miyuki bead bracelets: what they are, how they're made and why they last

Miyuki bead bracelets are bracelets made from precision glass beads produced by Miyuki, a Japanese manufacturer founded in 1949. Prized for their perfectly uniform size, delicate shine and long-lasting colours, Miyuki beads are strung into lightweight bracelets that are comfortable every day and refined enough for special occasions.

What exactly is a Miyuki bead?

Miyuki beads are glass seed beads made in Japan with exceptional precision: every bead is calibrated identically, which gives Miyuki bracelets their famously even, refined look. They come in hundreds of finishes: coloured, iridescent, matte or metal-plated glass — including the 24-carat gold-plated beads used in our Or bracelet.

How are Koss Design Miyuki bracelets made?

Every Koss Design bracelet is designed in Paris: Miyuki beads are strung one by one on a soft, durable elastic cord, sometimes paired with natural stones. Most bracelets are one size (wrists from 14 to 17.5 cm) and every piece comes in its Koss Design satin or velvet pouch. Single bracelets start at around €21-22 — like the turquoise Jøla or the white Neige — and sets range from about €59 to €79.

How long does a Miyuki bracelet last?

Miyuki glass beads don't tarnish like metal-plated jewellery: the colour is in the glass, not on the surface. With a few simple habits — taking your bracelet off before showering or swimming to protect the elastic, and storing it in its pouch — a Miyuki bracelet keeps its shine for years.

Worn alone or stacked?

Both. A single bracelet adds a subtle touch of colour; a stack of three to five creates the signature layered look. That's why our best-sellers are coordinated sets like the Rainbøw set or the Luna set. For the technique, see our guide how to stack your bracelets.

How do you choose your first Miyuki bracelet?

Start with how you'll wear it. For every day, a neutral or multicolour design like Liv. For summer, turquoise — see our beach & summer guide. To give as a gift, a boxed set — our gift guide by occasion and budget will help you choose.

Frequently asked questions

Are Miyuki beads real glass?

Yes. They are precision glass beads made in Japan. The gold versions used by Koss Design are plated with 24-carat gold.

Can you wear a Miyuki bracelet every day?

Yes — they're lightweight and designed for everyday wear. Take it off before swimming to extend the life of the elastic cord.

What wrist sizes?

One size on an elastic cord, for wrists from 14 cm (S) to 17.5 cm (M). Several designs also come in men's sizes.

How much does a Miyuki bracelet cost?

At Koss Design: single bracelets from €21, sets from €59 to €79, gift boxes from €122.90.