Coconut shell heishi beads are made by repeatedly grinding a strand of coconut shell chips until the desired tubular diameter is achieved. Add volume and a rhythmic feel to any necklace or bracelet design with a bunch of colorful coco heishi bead strands. Coco heishi beads, 2-5mm, have a unique texture about them but without the feel of ragged, chipped edges. Design Tip: Use several strands to create movement in your jewelry designs. You can tell a good quality strand of coco heishi beads by feeling it. A good heishi bead strand feels smooth-flowing and even like one long continuous tube.