Jewelry Making Resources | Fire Mountain Gems and Beads

Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: A friend asked me to fix a beaded necklace that had two strands twisted around each other with a large pendant in the center. One strand broke, leaving one side still twisted. Some beads had fallen off and were missing, so I basically had to start from scratch using new beads. Before cutting the remaining strands, I photographed the twisted strand, and the ends attached to the clasp. I then inspected the twisted strands to see how they stayed twisted. I saw nothing special that made the twists stay twisted. Next, I made two strands of beads to test what looked like “too easy”. As I feared, the strands untwisted. I searched the internet looking for the magic trick that I was missing. I found one post, words only, no pictures, and it talked about twisting 3 strands, which I could not relate to my issue. I am hoping one of the experts at Fire Mountain Gems could make a tutorial for twisting two strands. Can you help?

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Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set

Nothing captures the essence of winter like sterling silver and Crystal Passions® pearls. Catch a vision to create crisp, cool designs in this elegant palette.

Design Idea QJ3Q

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Ask the Experts Pandora Style Q&A

Q: What size bead should I use to put between charms for a Pandora or Biagi bracelet? The mm means next to nothing to average people. Thanks!

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Ask the Experts Restringing Q&A

Q: Is there some magic way to attach a crimp tube with an attached clasp to a finished piece strung on wire? Attaching the first tube at one end is easy, but when attaching the second one, the wire slips back through the beads (and then the beads fall off the wire causing endless frustration)--and the wire is cut so short (to fit into the crimp), there's nothing to grasp. The opening on the tube is so narrow that it would be nearly impossible to put a long piece of wire through the tube and cut it later. Any suggestions?

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Ask the Experts Sterling Silver Q&A

Q: Hi, I was wondering if there is a way to tell if a bead is sterling silver or something else. Whatever they are they are solid, nothing scratches off. Thanks

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Ask the Experts Making Necklaces with Leather Cord Q&A

Q: Question: I want to make necklaces with leather cord. I must buy supple cord so that it falls "flowing" around neck, not stiff. Nothing is mentioned about your leather spools. Please advise, I need all colors, all sizes, and all must be very flexible. Thank you.

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Moonstone, Silver

Nothing says subtle sophistication like grey or silver. Silver moonstone is a tantalizing silvery-grey translucent stone with a sheen that enhances just such a sense of sophistication.

Single-Strand Necklace and Earrings Set

Nothing is more iconic of the ocean than the distinct mystery of the jellyfish. Make that mystique your own with this beach-ready necklace and earrings set.

Design Idea PE2C

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Waistlet

Nothing says hot summer style like a waistlet. This project is right on trend with beachy summer styles and features Miyuki seed beads and sea life charms.

Design Idea J80Q

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Single-Strand Necklace

Nothing says simplicity and sophistication like a strand of beads around the neck. Gold-finished chain brings out the green hues in this classy emerald necklace.

Design Idea PD4A

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Three-Piece Necklace Set

Nothing says fall like a stylish jewelry set that's sure to transform any autumn outfit into a sparkling statement. Re-create this layered necklace and earrings for a fashionable season.

Design Idea MG2B

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