Jewelry Making Resources | Fire Mountain Gems and Beads

Secrets to Kumihimo Project 6: 12-Strand Braid with Cupchain

Learn how to create a stunning 12-strand flat kumihimo braid with cupchain in this step-by-step project from the Secrets to Kumihimo series.

Video Length 14:34

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Bracelet

The honeyed hues of hessonite garnet exude luxury in this simple beaded bracelet, featuring glimmering accents of gold-plated square beads.

Design Idea RG2M

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Single-Strand Necklace

Arboreal hues of dendritic opal are offset by the gentle blues of Crystal Passions® round beads in this delicate gemstone necklace.

Design Idea RG2N

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Lariat Necklace and Earrings

Add distinction and personality to your designs with brilliant amazonite cabochons suspended from delicate S-bar chain, as in this stunning lariat necklace.

Design Idea SA23

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Earrings

Head pins with hearts make it easy to create charming drop earrings, like this pair, featuring Crystal Passions® moonlight pearls and sparkling crystal beads.

Design Idea RM23

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“E” Inspirational Bead Mosaic

A colorful and intricate bead mosaic forming the letter "E," showcasing a variety of beads arranged meticulously to create a textured and eye-catching design.

Design Idea RG2C

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Ask the Experts Bail Measuring Q&A

Q: I would be so very grateful if anyone could let me know the dimensions of bails I will need for my projects. I am making resin pendants of three different thicknesses: 5mm, 10mm and 15mm. I don’t understand the dimensions listed for bails—which measurement is the height, depth and width, as well as the distance from the top of the pendant to the hole.

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Ask the Experts Wire Gauge Q&A

Q: What gauge wire should I buy to string beads with a 0.4-1mm hole?

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Ask the Experts Tila Beads Q&A

Q: Could you please give me some stringing material options for TILA® beads?

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Earrings

Chic polymer clay stripes meet a playful lemon motif in these fresh, preppy-inspired earrings.

Design Idea SA2C

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Single-Strand Necklace

Channel your inner feline with cat’s-eye quartz beads and a paw-print charm, finished with a fish-shaped toggle clasp—purr-fectly playful jewelry!

Design Idea RG2R

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Single-Strand Necklace

The silky bands of an autumn hickoryite cabochon offer a striking contrast to antiqued silver-plated wire and rugged leather cord in this earthy necklace.

Design Idea RF4D

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Gingerbread Man Earrings

A little bit spicy and a little bit sweet, these gingerbread man earrings sparkle with holiday cheer.

Design Idea RF42

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Ask the Experts Jump Rings Q&A

Q: What kind of jump rings do I need to use so they don't clump up and stick to the magnetic clasps? I've tried using stainless steel jump rings, but they still stick to the magnetic clasp. Thanks.

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Ask the Experts Eye Pins Q&A

Q: Does the length listed for the eye pins include the round head or just the shaft?

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Ask the Experts Polymer Clay Q&A

Q: I make old wine bottles into hummingbird feeders by beading them. If I make beads from polymer clay and finish them properly, will they be able to be used outdoors in bright sunlight and high (118 degrees) temperatures and still keep their color?

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Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set

Intricate French wire on a simple beading hoop, paired with labradorite discs, creates a sophisticated and understated necklace and earring set.

Design Idea SA24

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Secrets to Kumihimo Project 5: 10-Strand Flat Braid with Beads

Learn the secrets to creating a beautiful 10-strand flat Kumihimo braid with beads in this step-by-step tutorial.

Video Length 12:56

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Backdrop Necklace

Classic pearls take a modern turn in this daring backdrop necklace, where a strand of romantic pearls ends in a graceful silver butterfly and tassel.

Design Idea RG2X

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Earrings

Delicate chain meets the raw beauty of rich garnet nuggets in these organic, earthy earrings.

Design Idea SA22

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Four Pairs of Ornament-Style Earrings

Little ornaments for your ears, these earrings bring instant holiday cheer.

Design Idea RH33

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Single-Strand Backdrop Necklace

Complement a daring backline with this earthy blue sodalite necklace, featuring understated front pendants and a graceful beaded strand cascading down the back.

Design Idea RG25

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Ask the Experts Polishing Q&A

Q: Can polished beads be tumbled to reduce polish?

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Ask the Experts Wire Cutters Q&A

Q: What is the difference between side cutters and flush cutters? Is one better than the other?

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Ask the Experts Wire Cutters Q&A

Q: I'm working on bracelets and I don't want any more stretching with the cord. I get that cord stretches some, but I want as little as possible. I'm using griffin natural silk No.12 and tying a weight of 10lbs and lifting it sit for a few days. I'm hearing about soaking the cord in water first then waiting a week. I need your help. I can't make a bracelet and sell it knowing that there is going to be a gap in the design within a few months. What is the proper way to force a stretch on cord so it won't stretch down the road?

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Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set

Design for fall fashion with Preciosa Czech crystal in shades of topaz, as in this stunning necklace and earring set.

Design Idea SA29

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Set of Five Bracelets

Shimmering cat’s eye glass beads create luxurious stretch bracelets, each accented with unique, personal touches.

Design Idea SA28

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Earrings

The spirit of the sea shines in these paua shell and cultured freshwater pearl earrings, with an iridescent heart framed by concentric rings of hammered gold.

Design Idea SA26

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Bracelet and Earring Set

This elegant bracelet and earring set features 14Kt gold-filled hammered beads, soft lavender amethyst and delicate wirework for a timeless, handcrafted look.

Design Idea SA25

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Earrings

Celebrate the season in style with these festive Crystal Passions® pearl earrings, shimmering in classic holiday red and green.

Design Idea RF45

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Christmas Tree Earrings

Jewel-toned Christmas tree earrings are sure to bring a note of shimmer to any seasonal festivities!

Design Idea RH45

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Single-Strand Necklace

This asymmetrical necklace honors the journey of those affected by breast cancer—representing the balance between strength and vulnerability, loss and hope.

Design Idea RG2B

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“Hope” Awareness Ribbon Bead Mosaic

A bold and inspiring bead mosaic that celebrates strength, hope and resilience—perfect for sparking conversation or adding meaning to any creative space.

Design Idea RG2A

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We Ask Our Designers

Patti and Elaine share their creative process and reveal where they find inspiration for their jewelry designs—whether it’s nature, daily life or designing to sell.

Video Length 16:04

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Earrings

Rosy copper wire perfectly complements the cool blue-green hues of azurite-malachite in these delicate wirework earrings.

Design Idea RG27

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Bracelet and Earring Set

Delicate gold chain is adorned with tiny natural garnet beads and 14Kt gold-filled butterfly charms in this dainty bracelet and earring set.

Design Idea RM22

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The Making of "Alice in Wonderland": A Beaded Storyline

The Alice in Wonderland beaded collage, created by 42 artists worldwide, is a whimsical masterpiece that inspires and supports breast cancer research.

Secrets to Kumihimo Project 4: 10-Strand Flat Braid

Learn how to create a 10-strand flat braid using the ancient Japanese braiding technique of kumihimo in this step-by-step instructional video.

Video Length 13:41

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Ask the Experts Metal Allergies Q&A

Q: Which metal is better for allergies—hypoallergenic stainless steel or sterling silver?

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Ask the Experts Wire Gauge and Type Q&A

Q: I’m making wire-wrapped glass stud earrings. What gauge and wire type is the best? I’d like to use sterling silver. Would half-hard be sturdy enough for an earring back? Thank you.

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Ornament

This shimmering crystal snowflake ornament showcases Crystal Passions® vintage rose beads and white crystal pearls, creating a look both soft and radiant.

Design Idea RF4C

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Multi-Strand Necklace

Earthy and organic, this leather and shell necklace is rooted in natural beauty, with Miyuki Picasso seed beads adding a perfectly weathered touch.

Design Idea RD36

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Earrings

Sleek black onyx earrings get a playful twist with swirling silver accents and richly colored gemstone beads.

Design Idea SA2D

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Secrets to Kumihimo Project 3: 8-Strand Round Braid with Beads

Join Elaine in this video from her 9-part Kumihimo series as she adds seed beads and pearls to a braid and finishes the bracelet with decorative findings.

Design Idea RC3E

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Three-Piece Necklace Set

Bold strands of rich red coral and gleaming silver beads drape in harmony in this striking necklace set, evoking the vibrant spirit of the tropics.

Design Idea RD37

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Single-Strand Necklace

Create one-of-a-kind pendants with hammered aluminum spirals in a trio of metallic hues for a look that's both playful and sophisticated.

Design Idea RF4E

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Single-Strand Necklace, Bracelet and Earring Set

14Kt gold-filled chain and natural garnet briolettes make for a stunning necklace and earring set, complemented by a bracelet of faceted garnet cubes.

Design Idea RF48

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Ask the Experts Wire Wrapping Q&A

Q: Do you have a catalog specifically geared towards wire wrapping jewelry? I've been interested in pursuing this beautiful craft. With your catalogs having a few instructional sections, I thought this would be a helpful start for me.

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Ask the Experts Waist Beads Q&A

Q: Hello, I’m making waist beads, and I’m struggling with threading. I’ve tried nylon, which is thin enough for #11 and smaller beads, but it doesn’t hold knots well. I absolutely love the cotton, kite and hemp thread, but worry about how they dry, and I can’t find any thin enough for #11 or smaller beads. What do you recommend?

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Ask the Experts Seed Beading Q&A

Q: I would like to know how to convert square stitch to peyote stitch. This will be for a kimono using #11 Delica® seed beads. Thank you for any help that can be given.

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: I use mother-of-pearl shell beads and 14Kt gold-filled 3mm beads to make necklaces. What kind of wire do you recommend that won't bleed onto the beads? I have the same question about the 3mm bead. If it's black inside, it can bleed onto the hole of the mother-of-pearl shell beads. Any advice would be great.

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Ask the Experts Drill Holes Q&A

Q: What are the names of the types of drill holes for jewelry?

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Ask the Experts Stringing Q&A

Q: How do I use silk thread for necklace stringing so it won't relax and stretch?

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: How can I keep a flat bead from turning on the head pin when I make earrings?

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Ask the Experts Glues Q&A

Q: What glue can be used when gluing cultured freshwater pearls to silver?

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Reindeer Earrings

Quick and easy to make, Crystal Passions® reindeer earrings are a charming addition to your holiday jewelry line.

Design Idea RF4B

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Ask the Experts Finishing Q&A

Q: I am struggling with finishing a necklace with a delicate single charm. It is strung on a very delicate chain, and I have no earthly idea how to finish the chain so that I can then attach an equally delicate clasp. I am assuming that super glue is out, but what are my other choices? Thanks so very much for your kind assistance!

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Gift Box

Beautiful jewelry deserves beautiful packaging. Delight friends, family and customers with a gift box topped with ribbon roses and crimson pearl druk beads.

Design Idea RK22

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: I use Beadalon® 49-strand wire and 7-strand wire. What size crimps and wire protectors should I use on each size? Also, what size will I need if I use the 7-strand wire doubled?

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: Are rose gold and copper interchangeable colors for findings?

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: What needle would you recommend for a loom project that is about 5 inches (94 columns) wide and uses 11/0 Delica seed beads? I'm having to thread back through just a few columns at a time with my standard #12 needle.

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Ask the Experts Crimp Tube Sizes Q&A

Q: What is the difference between a micro, a cut and a regular crimp tube and the proper use of each one? Also, why are there fancy crimp tubes when you’re going to crimp them anyway? It seems like you'd loose the "fancy" look after crimping.

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Beyond Boho:

Learn how to use wood, shell and pearls to create elegant jewelry designs that go beyond traditional Boho style.

Design Idea RC57

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Ask the Experts Stringing Q&A

Q: What size silk thread should I use for stringing peridot chips for a necklace?

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Earrings

Coral-toned andesine paired with 14Kt gold lends these delicate hammered-wire earrings a rich, vintage elegance.

Design Idea RF26

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: What is a good gauge size for sterling silver head pins? I've been using some that I bought at a local craft store, but they don't say the gauge size. I want to buy silver 2-inch and 3-inch head pins.

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: I always buy gemstone beads. I get them all over. Recently, I ran into an issue. I paid more than I usually would for what was pictured as nice looking "jewelry beads/agate" online, but what I received was a ton of HUGE drilled tumble stones with mineral deposits. The seller and I are in a disagreement about them being exactly as listed. What technically makes a bead a bead and a rock a rock? Is there a standard? Thanks!

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Earrings

Topped with micro-bead sprinkles and finished with a glossy acrylic glaze, these polymer clay donut earrings look sweet enough to eat!

Design Idea XXXX

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Ask the Experts Stringing Q&A

Q: I only use FireLine for my wrapped bracelets (chan-lu style) but I find it breaking quite often when I’m making sure tension is correct and all glass beads or semi-precious stones are in place and ready to tie off the project as I’m completing the bracelet. Please help. This is maddening.

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Ask the Experts Measuring Q&A

Q: What does 8x10mm glass bead mean?

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Three-Piece Necklace and Earring Set

With swirls of sea-hued clay and gold leaf, this necklace and earring set showcases the luxurious potential of polymer clay—rivaling the beauty of gemstones.

Design Idea RE3U

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: Would you have a crimp cord that can be used for more than one cord? I am making a leather bracelet using 3 cords and cannot find a big enough crimp for it.

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: My necklace is a 16mm wide figaro. What size does my classic slide bail need to be?

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Ask the Experts Wire-Wrapping Wire Q&A

Q: I'm a beginner jewelry maker who would like to incorporate my own handmade ear wires into designs. Currently, the wire I've been using for much of my work is plated German-style wire. Is this wire safe to use for ear wires for most people? Thank you!

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Ask the Experts Measuring Q&A

Q: What is the correct method of measuring a curved tube bead?

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: Is it better to use a 3mm crimp for a beading wire necklace, or will a 2mm crimp suffice? If I use a 3mm crimp, do I use a 3mm crimp cover, or should I use a bead that is 1mm larger? Same for a 2mm crimp - should I use a 2mm crimp cover over a 2mm crimp? Thank you in advance.

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Earrings

Rose gold and black tones blend beautifully in these modern polymer clay earrings, creating a sleek, sophisticated look that’s sure to turn heads.

Design Idea RE3S

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Creating Jewelry Inspired by Cocktails or Mocktails

Sip in the inspiration—this video shows you how to create stunning bracelets inspired by the colors and vibes of your favorite cocktails and mocktails.

Design Idea RC34

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Inspirational Bead Mosaic Christmas Tree Wall Hanging

The subtly varied hues and shapes of the green seed beads in this intricate Christmas tree bead mosaic create texture and depth that delight the eyes.

Design Idea RF39

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Secrets to Kumihimo Project 1: Simple 4-Strand Braid

Unlock the basics of kumihimo with this easy-to-follow tutorial on creating a classic 4-strand braided bracelet.

Video Length 15:51

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Secrets to Kumihimo Project 2: 8 Strand Round Braid

Master the art of the 8-strand round kumihimo braid with this clear and simple bracelet-making tutorial.

Design Idea RC3D

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Charm Bracelet

Get into the Christmas spirit with this festive Preciosa tutorial—make a fun seed-beaded bracelet featuring five adorable holiday-themed charms!

Design Idea RF3C

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Ask the Experts Cleaners and Polishers Q&A

Q: I did a poor job of applying gloss topcoat to my 24Kt gold-plated seed beads and need to remove and redo it. How do I remove the topcoat I applied to them? Thank you.

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: I usually have difficulty in making crimps grip the stringing material. Recently, I attended a class at which the instructor told us that there are some crimp beads which have grooves scored in the inside of the crimp bead, which allows them to give a better grip to the stringing material. Do you have any information on this type of crimp beads? The ones I used in the class were small, 2x2mm, but they worked better than any others I have at home. Thanks for any info you can give to me!

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