Hello Carol.
The information here >http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parachute_cord is pretty factual according to my memory from skydiving days. Certainly enough for decorative/survival constructs. Nice looking spears and emergency lashings, etc… 
One possible resource of quality paracord you could check into is R&W Rope. http://rwrope.com/
They are a very helpful group, Bob Dollar goes the extra yard (Pun intended), prices are good and color selection wide, and are located in the U.S. northeast. They ship internationally too.
Hope this helps some.
SS