Ask the Experts Cleaning Q&A
Q: I bought some lovely white agate nugget beads. However, many of them look like their edges are dirty. Can you tell me the best way to clean these beads?
Jewelry Material: Gemstone
Explore Resources
Categories
Jewelry Medium (3611)
Bead Mosaics (29)
Resin & Mixed Media (164)
Polymer Clay (229)
Chainmaille (139)
Bead Stringing (1095)
Metalworking (259)
Seed Beading (612)
Wireworking (886)
Fiber & Textile (232)
Design Style (2820)
Awareness & Causes (18)
Boho (225)
Classic (91)
Décor (144)
Men's (91)
Minimalist (238)
Seasonal & Holiday (1348)
Statement (234)
Trends (118)
Vintage (55)
Wedding Jewelry & Décor (220)
Western (196)
Essential Resources (1170)
Charts (68)
Design Principles (36)
EncycloBEADia® (320)
Gemstone Meanings (183)
How-Tos (384)
Tools & Supplies (245)
Working With Color (26)
Jewelry Material: Gemstone
Ask the Experts Cabochons Q&A
Q: Several cabochon gemstones and paua shells do not exactly fit the settings I purchased for their size. How do I shave down the edges to make them fit?
Single-Strand Necklace, Bracelet and Earring Set
Stay fashion-fresh with amazonite! This necklace, earring and bracelet set is designed around the contrast between the warm golden tones of the findings and the cool minty blue-green of the gemstone.
Ask the Experts Cleaning and Polishing Gemstones Q&A
Q: Is there a simple way that I can increase the polished look of the commercial grade stone beads like the sodalite?
Ask the Experts Gemstone Drilling Q&A
Q: How do I drill a hole in a gemstone already polished.
Earrings
These heishi drop earrings are sure to add a touch of boho style to any fashion.
Single-Strand Necklace
Designer Marlene Rydzewski, creates a sophisticated necklace and earring set using sapphire beads, cultured freshwater pearls and sterling silver wire.
Single-Strand Necklace
Clusters of sparkling red rubies and lustrous freshwater pearls hang daintily from gold-filled chain on this elegant necklace
Triple-Strand Necklace
This multi-strand necklace by Matthew MacMinn can be made in silver and Crystal Passions® peridot green, or opt for the colors you or your customers like most.
Earrings
The gemstones in these delicate earrings infuse this design with the essence of early morning rain. Follow our free tutorial to make your own pair.
Single-Strand Necklace
One is a beautiful number. One sterling silver drop with peg + one half-drilled "opal" bead + one bail + one chain = one timelessly elegant pendant necklace.
How to Use Bezel Strips
Learn how to make a custom bezel setting for any cabochon using bezel strips. Clear images demonstrate every step in this how-to.
Single-Strand Necklace, Bracelet and Earrings Set
Celestial jewelry is always a stylish choice and these wire-wrapped quartz moons are radiant.
The Y Necklace
Follow the steps below to create a timeless and fashionable "Y" necklace. Your necklace is sure to get "oohs and aahs" from all who see it.
Stone Setting
Bezelite settings take all the mystery and headache out of stone setting. Get great results in seconds! They are made for faceted stones and most cabochons.
Memory Wire Bracelet
A stunning memory wire bracelet adorned with a harmonious blend of natural wood, captivating gemstones, and elegant sterling silver charms and beads.
Bloodstone
With an incredibly storied past, bloodstone was called "the Stone of Babylon," then later "the stone of martyrs," thought to have drops of Jesus' blood and believed to make rain.
Jasper, Brecciated
Jasper was popular in the ancient world for its medicinal and spiritual values, and has been used for centuries by cultures around the world for its unique properties.
Chrysoprase
Chrysoprase is a birthstone for May, which has traditionally symbolized happiness, enterprise and prudence. It is a powerful gemstone that brings good fortune and prosperity.
Coral
Coral is a highly prized substance believed to be endowed with mysterious sacred properties. Coral has been called the "garden of the sea" because it was once believed to be a plant.
Goldstone
Though not a stone--or gold!--goldstone is still a beautiful "gemstone" material. Its creation is shrouded in urban legend, including the result of alchemy or on accident by Italian monks.
Fluorite
Looking for the perfect gemstone to help you concentrate? Fluorite, the stone of discernment and aptitude, may be just what your next handmade jewelry design needs.
Jasper, Dalmatian
Dalmatian jasper, better known as Dalmatian stone, is an opaque, white spotted gemstone with brown and black that will make people turn around and look back at jewelry featuring it.
Jasper, Flower
When you see someone wearing flower jasper, it's like unexpectedly seeing a bouquet of warm, sunny colors. Flower jasper is thought to lift spirits and bring joy; perfect for jewelry!
You supply the creativity, we supply everything else! ®