Essential Resources

Organic

Refers to a bead made of a carbon-based material. Many jewelry-making components composed of pearl, wood, bone, horn and shell fall into this category.

How Many Beads per Strand?

Use this handy chart to determine the number of beads per strand according to bead size and strand length, which can vary from batch to batch.

The Right Adhesive for the Job

This detailed article explains the best adhesives for a variety of projects. Learn tips and techniques suited to your design needs.

Non-Marring Wire-Wrapping Pliers

Looking for wireworking pliers that won't mar wire or metal sheet? Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman shares pliers that won’t make marks on wire in this informative article.

A Pastel Mood

Embrace a romantic sensibility for your wedding with the pastel mood wedding style.

Monochromatic Jewelry

Discover why designers and style-savvy patrons around the world are embracing the modernity of this controlled-color trend.

An Earring Finding Guide

Different earring styles suit different needs, and the findings make all the difference! This handy guide explains the unique benefits of each type of earring finding.

Wireworking Tips: Wire Coils, Pliers and Jigs

Jewelry-making expert Sandra Lupo gives us the scoop on Beadalon® tools, including their banding pliers and improved Coiling Gizmo®. Learn all about these popular tools and tips for using them in this illustrated article.

Independent Lab Report

See the results of an independent lab study on Comparison Testing of three types of coated beading wires.

Spotlight on Celestial Crystal®

Celestial Crystal® is our line of crystal beads and components. Explore a few of our favorites and discover how to bring their dazzling versatility to your jewelry designs.

Upcycled Jewelry: Sustainable Beading for the Eco-Minded

Upcycling jewelry is an eco-minded trend that everyone can get behind. Just take existing materials and repurpose them into jewelry!

Minerals, Rocks, Gemstones, Crystals - What’s the Difference?

Looking to brush up on your understanding of geology? Dive into this informative article that explores the distinctions among rocks, minerals, crystals and gemstones.

I Dream of Druzy

Get excited about druzy jewelry! Adorned with tiny, glistening crystals, these gemstones have the potential to become the focal point of your latest jewelry masterpiece.

Learn Simmon's Polymer Clay Blend

Take your polymer clay blending skills to the next level with Simmon's polymer clay blend. Witness firsthand how this technique creates a stunningly balanced spectrum of colors.

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How To Care For Plated Jewelry

This article will teach you the best practices for preserving the beauty and quality of your gold- and silver-plated jewelry pieces over time.

Negative Space in Jewelry Design

Incorporating negative space into your jewelry designs adds a distinctive touch that will set your creative efforts apart. This article explains how.

Pearl Jewelry Guide

Explore the beauty of pearls with this complete guide to types, grading, care, pricing and stylish ways to wear them.

Polymer Clay Succulents

Capitalize on the growing popularity of succulents' eye-catching aesthetic by using sculpted polymer clay to form plants sans soil.

Everything You Need to Know About Jeweler's Saws

Find everything you need know about jeweler's saws in this video and informative article. Learn the tips and tricks to using a jeweler's saw to get the design you want.

Ergonomics for Beaders

Ergonomics involves tools and techniques that help prevent injury. This article covers why jewelry makers should consider how repetitive motion, vibration, and posture affect their health, productivity, and enjoyment.

Accu-Flex® Professional Quality Beading Wire Review

Read what Paula S. Morgan of about.com has to say about Fire Mountain's Accu-Flex Professional-Quality Beading Wire in her expert review.

Face Shape and Jewelry Choices

Learn how to create beautiful jewelry to flatter any face shape.

Size Does Matter: Making Jewelry with the Proper Fit

It's an old joke, in some circles: size doesn't matter. Yet, jewelry that doesn't fit simply doesn't get purchased. And if purchased, could get returned, with cost to the jewelry maker in both money and reputation. This is especially important for...

PANTONE® 2026 Color of the Year: Cloud Dancer

Discover how PANTONE® 11-4201 Cloud Dancer—the serene, airy white chosen as the 2026 Color of the Year—inspires jewelry designs with clarity, calm and limitless creative possibility.

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