A bead cut from a tube of glass or plastic, then tumbled and polished to smooth the edges. Used on cornrow braids, fringe and in Native American styles.
Carat
The unit of weight used for precious stones. One carat equals one-fifth of a gram. Also a measurement of fitness in gold. Pure gold is expressed as 24Kt.The term ''carat'' dates back to the traders of the ancient world.
Crimp Tube
A metal bead or short metal tube used with all beading wires and some beading cords to secure the beginning and finish the end of a strand.
Crimping Pliers
Pliers with a grooved opening for folding, rolling and smoothing crimp beads and tubes. Crimping pliers create a smooth, rounded or curved crimp.
Crimp Clasp
Has structural crimps for attaching to the end of beading wire or cord with Crimping Pliers. Can include Hook-and-Eye, Lobster Claw and Magnetic Clasp styles.
Crimp Bead
A metal bead or short metal tube used with all beading wires and some beading cords to secure the beginning and finish the end of a strand.
Crimp
A metal bead or short metal tube used with all beading wires and some beading cords to secure the beginning and to finish the end of a strand.
Cord Coil
(see also Coil End) A wire coil bead with an end loop.
Cord
A thin, flexible length of twisted fibers.
Curb Chain
A form of chain with oval links that have been twisted, so that the entire chain lays flat.
Ice-Pick Bail
Similar to a prong bail, it will create a loop to attach a chain to when the prongs are closed into a cross-drilled pendant.
Cane Glass
Beads resembling old-fashioned candy sticks. Small canes of colored glass are fused together to create a larger rod, then coated with clear glass and fired.
Cone
Necklace terminator or beading finding used to bring multiple strands together at one point to attach a clasp or be part of the design.
Grow Your Own Jewelry Business
This article guides aspiring jewelry business owners through the process of growing their venture, from crafting a mission statement and business plan to marketing strategies, sales venues, customer service and more.
Component
A smaller, self-contained part used in jewelry-making and beading.
A Guide to Jewelry-Making Jargon
Though a bit confusing at first, jewelry-making jargon helps customers and artists communicate effectively. Take a look at this brief guide to some common phrases and descriptions.
Cameo
A carved gem or shell, in which the carved design stands out against a background of a different color.
Cultured Saltwater Pearl
Pearls created by a farmer, who inserts a "seed" of mother-of-pearl into a saltwater oyster. The oyster coats the seed with layers of nacre, creating a pearl.
Pearl, Cultured Freshwater
Pearls created by a farmer, who inserts a "seed" of mother-of-pearl into a freshwater oyster. The pearl oyster will coat the seed with nacre, creating a pearl.
Clasp
A fastener that connects two or more ends of a piece of jewelry together. Clasps can be utilitarian and purely functional, or embellished design elements.
Cloisonne
Enamel with surface decorations set in hollows formed by strips of wire welded to a metal plate.
Coil End
(see also Cord Coil) A wire coil bead with an end loop.
Celluloid
Thermoplastic material that was commonly used in jewelry before the invention of injection molding. Now used to simulate tortoiseshell.
Coil Bead
A bead created using coiled wire. Some styles can be pinched like a crimp bead.
Chevron Beads
Learn about chevron beads (also called rosetta beads or star beads). Explore their origins, evolution, and cultural significance in this enlightening article.
Chaton
A particular shape of cut glass or crystal, most commonly known as Crystal Passions® rhinestones. A chaton has a faceted, pavillion-shaped (pointed) bottom.
Chatelaine
A chain, pin or clasp worn at a woman's waist, to which trinkets, keys or other articles are attached. Also used for pins with two figures linked by a chain.
Charms
Small ornaments worn as pendants or on bracelets.
Chain Tabs
A small, flat metal finding that is often hung on a piece of precious-metal jewelry and stamped as a "tag" identifying the precious metal content.
Chain-Nose Pliers
Pliers with flat gripping surfaces, used to reach into tight places, at difficult angles, to grip components, bend wire and stabilize a design while working.
Accurate Measuring in Jewelry-Making
Learn how to save time and money by taking the guesswork out of wireworking and metalsmithing by learning how to accurately measure. In this article jewelry-making expert Sandra Lupo teaches us how to accurately measure for jewelry-making success.
Multi-Strand Bracelet
Step out in style with this multi-gemstone bracelet featuring Celestial Crystal® beads and gold-plated accents.
Earrings
Adorn yourself with elegance in these stunning multi-gemstone dangle earrings, featuring a graceful gradual cascade of colorful beads with exquisite gold-plated accents.
A Guide to Bails
Ever wonder what a bail is? How do you use it and what should you look for to find what you need for your designs? All of that has been compiled in one handy location.
Earrings
Pink and gold dazzle together in an earring design featuring Sculpey® PREMO clays and gold leaf sheet. Wire twists form breast cancer ribbon symbols.
Earrings
Craft dainty earrings flowing with the cool, serene hues of the ocean. Monogrammed discs add a personal touch to enhance the beauty of this work of art.
Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set
Transform your style with our mesmerizing necklace and earring set showcasing Preciosa Czech crystals in light sapphire, sapphire, and cobalt blue, beautifully paired with a fashionable paperclip chain and gold-finished brass accents.
A Dozen Ways to End a Necklace
Sometimes it's not easy to know how to end a necklace, especially when there are so many ways that you can start it. Well take a breath of relief, here are a dozen ways to help you.
A Sterling Reputation: Is Your Piece Fine or Sterling Silver?
Determining whether a piece of jewelry is fine or sterling silver can make or break a sale. Learn six different ways to test a piece of jewelry before and after you buy.
Earrings
Cleverly using Czech glass flower beads as the ends of a wrapper, this delicious-looking butterscotch earring set looks sweet enough to eat.
Ask the Experts Hot-Fix Crystals Q&A
Q: Can garments which have been embellished with hot fix rhinestones be ironed safely? Or will the heat of the ironing cause them to un-adhere? I would be ironing at synthetic or silk settings, not at high.
Ask the Experts Crochet Q&A
Q: I would like to know what wire to use for bead crochet.
Ask the Experts Gemstones Q&A
Q: I recently collected a lot of small stones and pebbles on the beach and want to wire wrap them and turn them into pendants. However, after the stones dried, they lost some of the appeal that made me pick them up in the first place. How can I treat the stones to give them the ''just out of the ocean'' look again? And I need this to be permanent and safe to wear. Thank you,
Jewelry Guide for Clothing Choices
In this article, you will learn how to make the most out of your jewelry by pairing it with complementary outfits.
History of Seed Beads: Japan
Part two on the history of Japanese seed bead industry. Find out how Japanese beads came to be regarded with such acclaim by beaders around the world.
Fun, Festive and Easy Holiday Earrings
Celebrate the Christmas spirit in style with this merry collection of holiday earring designs. Use these sparkling ideas for sales, accessorizing and gifts.
History of Seed Beads
Trace the lineage of seed beads from their origins in clay and shell to the glorious heights achieved as the glassmaking industry refined the trade across the globe.
How to Make Bracelets with Bugle Beads and Seed Beads
Long twisted bugle beads fill these bracelets with fiery colors—make your own using the full written instructions courtesy of Preciosa®.
Mandrels for Jewerly-Making
Have questions about mandrels? Learn all about this valuable metalsmithing tool and the different options available in this article on mandrels.
Multi-Strand Necklace
Create a unique necklace with an enameled pendant, complete with custom setting and bail. Read on to learn how.
"Barely There" Jewelry Chain
Less is more with the barely there jewelry trend, featuring petite chain. See the minimalist trend that's taking the jewelry world by storm.
A Brief History of Czech Glass Bead Making
Travel to the Crystal Valley and explore the rich heritage of Czech glass beads.
2021 Jewelry-Making Contest Winners and Finalists
While the contest is over, the winning designs continue to transcend their time. Explore the remarkable winners of the 2021 Jewelry-Making Contest.
2018 Jewelry-Making Contest Winners and Finalists
See the remarkable winning and finalist designs of the 2018 Jewelry Making Contest.
2020 Jewelry-Making Contest Winners and Finalists
See the incredible winning and finalist designs of the 2020 Jewelry Making Contest, such as Laura Giusti's intricate work of art.
It's Showtime: Preparing for Your First Craft Show
Get ready for your first craft show with a detailed checklist from start to finish. Go from novice to expert quickly!
2019 Jewelry-Making Contest Winners and Finalists
See the winners of the 2019 Jewelry-Making Contest that surpassed expectations with an unparalleled level of detail and artistry.
Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set
This chic jewelry set featuring lapis lazuli half-moon beads and trendy tassels will sweep you off your feet with its stylish design.
Triple-Strand Necklace
Turn heads this holiday season with this stunning necklace adorned with the intricate beauty of a Crystal Passions® amethyst drop, an emerald Chaton, and a mix of Crystal Passions® amethyst and emerald beads, all elegantly complemented by a delicate gold-finished chain.
Marketing with Displays: Color Theory
According to the psychology of color, people are emotionally affected by different colors and combinations. Learn how to use color theory to boost your jewelry marketing efforts.
Is Someone Giving You the ''Evil Eye''?
Wear the Hand of Fatima a palm-shaped amulet that is commonly depicted as either an open right hand or a hand with 2 symmetrical thumbs.
Custom Gadget and Accessory Embellishment
Get tips and inspiration for custom embellishment projects that will delight both you and your customers.
All About Metal Sheet
There is a lot of metal sheet for you to pick from when you're making your metal jewelry. That is why all of them have been assembled into one chart.
The Rosary
Learn more about the holy rosary and how it's been a treasured devotion in the Catholic Church for centuries.
Triple-Strand Bracelet and Earring Set
Elegant jasper and silk stone beads are paired with antique silver-plated brass in this alluring necklace and earring set. The delicate filigree adorning the flower focals adds a touch of timeless femininity to the overall design.
Triple-Strand Necklace and Earring Set
Make a bold statement with this stunning necklace and earring set that exudes earthy elegance. This showstopper features beads of dyed African "turquoise," antiqued copper and faceted red jasper, creating a truly captivating ensemble.
Earrings
This earring design is versatile enough to be whatever you'd like--a flower, a Celtic knot or planetary orbits. Colorful jump rings and Celestial Crystals® are easy to personalize.
Collar-Style Necklace, Bracelet and Earring Set
Designer Florewela Dela Cruz Cornelis imagined seeing this set head Down the Aisle and we can't help but want to see that, too.
Key Ring
Express your resilience with this macramé keyring adorned with a charm proudly declaring "survivor."
Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set
Make your own pendant by creating a seed bead bezel for any Crystal Passions, or other centerpieces.
Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set
An opulent effect is created with the dramatic length of this necklace and the color pairing of gold and purple.
Ornament
Craft an enduring vision of loveliness that will captivate generations to come with this radiant snowflake ornament, adorned with lustrous green beads and sparkling crystals.
Single-Strand Necklace
Craft this simple and charming cross necklace, showcasing gleaming stainless steel and a sleek, masculine design.
Double-Strand Necklace and Earring Set
Diverse elements harmonize to create a cohesive whole in this chic necklace and earring set. This ensemble features sophisticated black and green onyx, sparkling white topaz and shimmering White Lotus™ cultured pearls.
Earrings
For a truly festive touch, craft charming Christmas earrings featuring a gold-finished pewter and enamel Christmas sleigh.
Earrings
Showcasing twisted jump rings as the standout feature, these earrings ascend to a new level of elegance. Adorned with the gentle hues of spring, this earring set emanates a soft glow of pale green and silver, shimmering with a sense of hope.
Earrings
Understated modern flair comes to life with these silver- and gold-toned earrings. Featuring Crystal Passions® vintage gold pearl beads and faceted crystals, this pair is perfect for any occasion.
Earrings
Embrace the spirit of gift-giving in every season with these charming earrings adorned with Crystal Passions® faceted cubes. Playful red bows add a touch of cunning elegance, tying the whole picture together with perfection.
Earrings
Faceted cone beads give the popular Christmas tree earring design a sleek, modern look.
Ring
Draw inspiration from this stunning award-winning ring, featuring faceted gemstones set in fine silver Precious Metal Clay. The design exudes a regal style reminiscent of the jewels worn by medieval royalty, adding a timeless touch to your creations.
Multi-Strand Necklace
Amber and golden horn beads hang like drops of "Honey in the Comb" in Sandy Mikel's striking necklace.
Bookmark
Create this enchanting bookmark featuring two hearts embellished with Crystal Passions® rhinestones. A flowering vine winds its way down the double-sided base.
Double-Strand Necklace and Earring Set
The cultured freshwater pearls and shimmering crystals in this set frame small pops of color, making this design as versatile as it is stunning.
Earring
Radiating a golden luminosity, cultured freshwater pearls take center stage, gracefully paired with the luster of gold-plated brass beads in these enchanting earrings.
Earrings
Crafted with captivating shimmer, these exquisite earrings boast an elegant teardrop shape enhanced by the brilliance of Crystal Passions® light rose and amethyst faceted beads.
Earrings
With icy whites and greens as cool as frost, these cultured pearl and natural green aventurine earrings make a striking and contemporary statement.
Bangle Bracelet
This sterling silver bangle holds the key to your heart. Adorned with sterling silver charms and a glistening droplet of alexandrite purple cubic zirconia, this adjustable bracelet is destined to captivate and charm.
Rearview Mirror Charm
They say don't drive faster than your angels can fly and now you can have your own rearview-mirror charm as a reminder.
Bangle Bracelet
This charming bangle bracelet offers metallic sheen in both gold and silver. Personalize it to reflect your style by imprinting letters onto a gold-plated brass charm.
Bangle Bracelet
Craft this sterling silver adjustable bracelet featuring dangling Crystal Passions® beads in shades of emerald and fuchsia. An antique sterling silver angel charm completes this winsome jewelry piece.
Bangle Bracelet
Create something vibrant and special with this sweet and romantic bracelet. Adorned with sparkling hearts and red Crystal Passions® bicone beads, this adjustable bracelet is certain to delight.
Multi-Strand Bracelet
This breathtaking multi-strand bracelet is full of dreamy colors and fascinating textures. Deep-purple and lavender amethysts put on a regal show alongside prehnite, emerald and apatite's soothing hues.
Ring
Crystal Passions® rhinestone crystals illuminate this stunning ring, creating a captivating checkerboard pattern that sparkles with unmatched radiance.
Earrings
Dazzle with sparkling faceted stones of graduated sizes in these chic earrings. The deep color of the stones is complemented by a piquant star twinkling at the bottom of the earring.
All About Jewelry-Making Wire
Learn the basics of jewelry-making wire, including wire shape, hardness and what wire to use in your projects.
Men's Jewelry: Defining a Sense of Style
Explore this selection of techniques and materials to help you design wow-worthy complements to modern menswear.