How do I do the math on my phone?
We compare all quotes to per-strand using micro-rondelle reference weights. Identify the stone and strand length, then use the carats-per-strand below. From $/ct, multiply by carats per strand. From $/g, first divide by 5 to get $/ct, then multiply by carats per strand.
Anish here: I keep "5 = 1" in my notes, meaning 5 carats equals 1 gram. It speeds up every aisle.
- Tourmaline 3 mm baseline: ~17 ct per 8 in
- Sapphire 3 mm baseline: ~20 ct per 8 in
What carats are in a 13 to 16 inch micro-rondelle strand?
Use these working baselines for 3 mm faceted rondelles. They come from what we and our Jaipur cutters see in the trade, and they let you compare quotes fast.
For more on the materials themselves, our stone notes for tourmaline and sapphire are a good anchor when you're checking lots.
- Tourmaline 3 mm: use 17 ct per 8 in, scaled to strand length
- Sapphire 3 mm: use 20 ct per 8 in, scaled to strand length
How do I convert $ per carat to $ per strand?
Multiply the vendor's $/ct by the carats per strand from the ranges above. That gives you $/strand for a 13 to 16 inch micro-rondelle.
For a 16 in tag, use the high end. If it is between, split the difference.
How do I convert $ per gram to $ per strand?
First, turn $/g into $/ct. Divide the gram price by 5, since 5 carats equal 1 gram. Then multiply that $/ct by the strand's carats.
That result is the comparable $/strand. If the vendor will weigh the strand, great, but this method works when they will not.
What if the strand runs 2 to 6 mm or is graduated?
Graduated strands weigh more than a uniform 3 mm micro-rondelle. If you only need a quick compare, use the 3 mm ranges as a conservative estimate and note that the real $/strand may land higher.
When precision matters, ask for the strand weight or a scale. We see many faceted rondelles cut on 13 inch strings from Jaipur, which also affects total carats.
How many inches of beads do I need for bracelets and necklaces?
This helps you decide if one strand covers your project. Standard strand length from Jaipur is 13 to 16 inches. Faceted rondelles at 13 inches often cover a bracelet or choker, and two strands make a longer necklace.
On a 16 inch choker, the beaded run is about 14.5 inches. On an 18 inch necklace, it is about 16.5 inches. Knotting adds about 1 mm per knot.
- Counts per 18 in: 4 mm about 104, 6 mm about 70
- A 15 to 16 in strand of 6 mm rondelles has about 65 to 70 beads
- A 15 to 16 in strand of 4 mm rondelles has about 95 to 100 beads
- Counts for a 16 in choker: 6 mm about 61, 8 mm about 46
Where can I read more about bead shapes and planning?
Rondelles are the workhorse for strung designs. We note how they're measured and drilled on our rondelles page.
When you're comparing lots, keep the stone basics in mind. Our quick guides for tourmaline and sapphire cover hardness and use, which matters for bracelets and daily wear.