When I am making a bracelet, rosary, or other wire-wrapped item, I usually use four basic wires: stainless steel, silver over copper, brass over copper, and copper wire. The hardest and strongest wire that I use is stainless steel - 20 gauge. I use 18 gauge for handmade hooks but normally 20 and 22 gauge are my go-to wire.
To be honest, I try to make one item with stainless steel wire and then wait a while before beginning another project using the same wire because it is so strong that it puts calices and sometimes cuts on my hands. However, it is worth it to complete a finished piece that you know is very resistant to breaking and bending. If you are looking for an item that will last for years and years, stainless steel is a wonderful choice. It all comes down to what you are looking for in your custom made item.
I love all of the wire that I use, each for different reasons. For bracelets, I prefer a silver plate, bronze, or copper. For rosaries and prayer beads, it depends of your personal preference, as they all make beautiful and long lasting items.
Another tip, if you are making an item with stainless steel wire, keep a different pair of wire clippers just to use with the stainless steel wire. Since it is so strong, it tends to dull the standard jewelry wire clippers quicker than other wire, so keep a pair just to use with stainless steel wire.
Two items that I have currently designed using stainless steel wire are:
https://www.etsy.com/your/shops/LetOurLightShine/tools/listings/order:ascending/455287730
https://www.etsy.com/your/shops/LetOurLightShine/tools/listings/order:ascending/525029083
You can see how beautiful the stainless steel wire looks with the crystal beads, yet is amazingly strong and difficult to bend or break.
If you are looking for an heirloom piece that will last a lifetime, a great choice is stainless steel wire.
