"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.

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.

Color seasons have been applied to jewelry and fashion for decades. Find ways to match your designs to the 12 designations in this article.

Q: What is "Add-a-bead chain"? What technique secrets apply to this type of chain?

The Hot-Fix Heater™ rhinestone applicator simplifies and streamlines the process of applying rhinestuds. Let these clear and concise instructions be your guide, enhancing the glamour of your creative projects.

Q: I am fairly new to beading. How do I attach flat-backed crystals to a T-shirt or blouse?

Q: Thank you so much for providing answers to my many questions. I hadn't realized this was an option. I've been fascinated with Argentium, but I can't find much in the way of instructional materials. I have several questions for you, and I thank you in advance for taking time to answer.

Q: I see that an artist's fixative is recommended for use on metallic seed beads. I assume this is for use on a finished piece--otherwise wouldn't the fixative plug the holes? Is it best to use a paintbrush to apply the fixative, to keep it from getting on other parts of the piece? And to apply it on one side, let it dry, and then apply on the other? Also, I once applied a fixative to larger beads, and found the next morning that it had become thick and dried on the bottom. What position do you recommend leaving them in for drying? Thanks.

Advance your jewelry-making skills by crafting pieces that seamlessly blend enamel and metal. These clear instructions lay out not only the procedures but the rationale behind the necessary steps.

(also called lustre) A description of how light interacts with the surface of a material. Originally applied to gemstones such as the pearl or opal. The use of luster/lustre has been expanded to indicate a glossy sheen on other materials such as glass.

A liquid applied to a metal surface that removes surface impurities (such as stains, scale, rust and more).

Also called essence d'orient. A crystalline substance extracted from fish scales and combined with acrylic resins. Used to make imitation pearls. In better imitations, the essence is applied over opaline glass beads; in cheaper imitations, over plastic beads. Discovered in 1565 by Jaquin, a French manufacturer of rosaries, when he accidentally dipped some pearls into water in which he had washed fish. Refined versions today produce spectacular results.

In this DIY video, award-winning polymer clay guru Christi Friesen interprets sgraffito, an ancient technique of scratching designs through surfaces, into the modern medium of polymer clay. Follow along with her to build the layers and then apply the sgraffito technique to create a scratched design.

Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman demonstrates the process of applying Magic-Glos® Top Coat for a flawless finish.

Mathematical concepts apply themselves to jewelry in this project. Follow the free instructions to create a Sine Wave bangle--no graphing calculator required!

Zebra Wire is a copper wire designed for fashion jewelry, crafts and home décor projects. Colored Zebra Wire is made by electroplating a copper wire core, spraying the copper with a vibrant enamel coating, and applying a protective lacquer. This coating process is repeated to produce a strong, glossy, non-tarnish finish. Both flexible and durable, Zebra Wire is tempered dead-soft. It can be bent into shapes, wraps well and can be woven. It will stay wrapped and will hold its shape similar to sterling silver dead-soft wire.To maintain the integrity of the coating, the use of Tool Magic covered pliers and/or nylon jaw pliers is recommended when working with colored Zebra Wire. Use a polishing cloth, such as Moonshine® cloth, to bring back luster that might have been lost.The metallic colors of gold, silver and natural Zebra Wire are not enameled. Gold color is made of raw brass; silver color is copper with a silver finish; natural is made of raw copper.Zebra Wire colors include black, brown, green, magenta, red, sapphire, natural copper, silver and gold. Gauges available are 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30.

Inspired by the ups and downs of modern life, Laura Silverman's "Don't Triangulate" artfully applies color theory to peyote stitch for splendid results.