Essential Resources

Discover the different links available and how to use these components in jewelry making to save time and create beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces.

Where do gemstones come from? Discover the origins of your favorite gemstones from around the world (or beyond).

Discover the reasons and techniques for cleaning enamel prior to application, through these simple illustrated instructions.

Explore some great ways to use cabochons in your jewelry projects.

"Plated" refers to a process in which a thin layer of precious metal, such as gold or silver, is applied to the surface of another metal. This technique is used to give jewelry and/or components the desirable appearance of being made entirely from a more expensive precious metal, while keeping costs lower. Plating enhances aesthetic appeal, prevents tarnishing and increases durability. However, plated jewelry requires special care to maintain its appearance, as the thin layer of precious metal can wear off over time with regular use.

Don't let your bolo or lariat necklace be incomplete. Design your piece from tip to focal with these creative cord finishing methods.

Love the look of crystal, but unsure which brand to shop? Discover the highlights of each of the top three crystal manufacturers.

Avoid color bleed in beads! Learn all about colorfastness, how to identify what jewelry-making supplies are colorfast and tips for protecting color in your creations.

Anodizing is a technique used in jewelry making to enhance the durability and color of metal pieces. By applying an electrolytic process, it thickens the metal's natural oxide layer, improving its resistance to wear and corrosion. This method allows for the introduction of vibrant, long-lasting colors to metals like aluminum, titanium, and silver, without the need for dyes, resulting in durable and aesthetically appealing jewelry.

Turn jewelry making into an art form with these 7 key design principles. Learn how balance, movement and more can inspire new heights of creativity.

The Federal Trade Commission Guides for the Jewelry Industry as revised April 10, 2001 are designed to prevent unfair or deceptive trade practices.

Discover the story of the Boss' Bead Bag, a unique mix of beads born from a serendipitous accident. Get your hands on a bundle of beading goodness in one grab bag!

Every design has a story. Learn how to share who you are and why you make jewelry so people can build a relationship with you and your work.

Discover the timeless allure of royal blue and draw inspiration for your most profound blue creations.

Optical properties refer to the way gemstones interact with light. Color, interference and inclusions are all examples of optical properties. The first optical property is also the most obvious--color.

Learn how the Bead Storage Solutions™ system from Elizabeth Ward can keep your beads and jewelry supplies organized with this informative guide.

Good light is so important when beading. Here are some ideas about lighting and other ways to improve the beading workspace.

Delve into our extensive jump ring resource. Here you'll find a wealth of information about one of the most versatile jewelry-making resources, from sizes and materials to chainmaille weaves.

No need to be a blacksmith to join metal to metal—you can use cold connections! Here are 6 ways to connect metals (or other materials) without using fire or electricity.

Glass beads have been a favorite jewelry-making supply for thousands of years. Learn about the ancient techniques used to craft various types of beads.

View this helpful guide to the top 7 ways to finish jewelry chain from our in-house jewelry-making experts.

Here's an easy guide to find awareness ribbon colors for causes close to your heart, along with product suggestions to design your own awareness jewelry using Crystal Passions® crystals.

Explore how to use geometric shapes for limitless design possibilities.

Read on to discover the differences between natural hematite and man-made Hemalyke™ beads and components.