Essential Resources

Fiber Optic Glass

This glass gets its name from its similarity to Cat's Eye Quartz and the unique way the two materials refract light. Also called Cat's Eye Glass.

How to Open Magnetic Clasps

Learn the easy way to open magnetic clasps without risking damage or losing the magnets.

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Earwire

A thin piece of wire used to support ear jewelry. Ear wires come in many styles. The fishhook is popular often with a ball or coil to balance the finding.

Ear Thread

An earring form consisting of a short post with attached chain. The post serves as a "needle," allowing the chain to be threaded front-to-back through the ear.

Earstud

A finding, usually metal, used to create ear jewelry. The post or stud passes through the ear, and is secured by an earnut on the back. Also see Earpost.

Earpost

A finding, usually metal, used to create ear jewelry. The post or stud passes through the ear, and is secured by an earnut on the back. Also see Earstud.

Ear Cuff

A half-circle band or ring of metal pinched around the side or middle edge of the ear. Some styles have a dangle or a chain to an earstud on the same ear.

UNIVERSAL™ Magical Crimper Pliers

Jewelry designer Rose can't help but be excited when telling you about a pair of magical crimping pliers that turns a crimp tube into a round crimp bead. Don't blink, you might miss it!

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Weighing with Digital Scales

Discover the precision of digital scales for your crafting needs when accuracy in weight measurement is essential.

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How to Use the Crystal Katana Embellishment Positioner

The Crystal Katana is an invaluable tool when working with small crystals and embellishments, allowing you to easily grip and position them.

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Gold Filled

Explore the precise technical definition of "gold-filled" within this EncycloBEADia® entry.

EUROTOOL® Nylon Jaw Looping Pliers

In-house jewelry designer Jamie Smedley shows the benefit of EUROTOOL® nylon jaw pliers when working with jewelry-making wire you don’t want to mar or scratch.

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Gauge

The measurement of the thickness of wire or metal sheet: the higher the number, the thinner the metal.

Fishhook Clasp

A lightweight clasp with a fishhook-shaped interior hook which is inserted into an oval box. The hook stops jewelry from falling off if the clasps are opened.

Using EUROTOOL® Coil Cutting Pliers

We're diving into the world of jewelry-making with EUROTOOL® Coil Cutting Pliers -- designed to effortlessly handle wire coils. Complete with comfortable cushion grip handles and a center spring for smooth cutting action.

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Druzy

Name given to a layer of tiny quartz crystals which have formed on a gemstone.

Drop

A component that dangles from another component or the jewelry's body. A drop has one top loop or hole and any range of bottom loops or holes, including none.

Fire-Polished

A process in which beads are machine faceted, then polished by glazing inside a red-hot glass oven. This softens the edges and gives the beads a smooth feel.

Druk Bead

A high-quality round pressed glass bead imported directly from the Czech Republic.

Fringe Bead

A mostly round drop bead, created by Miyuki of Japan. Perfect for edges and the termination of a row of beadwork.

French Wire

Tightly coiled, fine wire that forms a flexible tube. Used to conceal and protect stringing materials from abrasion by metal jewelry findings. Also bouillon.