Types of microscopy were used to observe morphologies, and SEM/EDS was used to analyze compositions of three groups of Ming and Qing Dynasty metallic threads.The metallic strips, substrate, thread cores of these metallic threads were investigated. The differences in morphology, structure, dimensions and materials are compared and investigated. The manufacturing techniques used and quality grades of the three groups of metallic threads are discussed. It was found that metallic threads were selectively used according to decoration needs, textile function and their cultural attributes. The highest grades of metallic threads are those made using a high gold content foil, having a silk core, and as finely made thin threads. These threads were used for high grade, both functionally and culturally important, textiles. In addition metallic threads lacking back layer were considered better than the threads with the back layer. This research is valuable for metallic thread analysis and could be used as reference.