Beads used for jewelry-making come in different materials, shapes and sizes. Materials often occur naturally, as in the case of precious and semi-precious stones, minerals or metals. Jewelry beads also contain man-made materials.
Gemstone beads are quite popular for making jewelry. While emeralds, sapphires and rubies are considered precious gemstones and can come with a hefty price tag, they are readily available in bead form. This way they are quite inexpensive because they lack fancy cutting and faceting. It is this labor that enhances the price tag of fine jewelry.
In addition, there are well over 100 semi-precious gems to choose from. Using these, you can easily afford a piece of jewelry that is not only "real," but eye-catching as well. Some of the most popular semi-precious beads used in making jewelry are onyx, agate, jasper, quartz, aquamarine, amethyst, turquoise and lapis.
Metal beads used in jewelry-making include precious metal beads (gold or silver) as well as brass, copper and nickel. Gold beads are generally metal plated, rather than solid, in white or yellow gold. While you can buy sterling silver beads that are tarnish-free, you will commonly find them uncoated. Since metal beads are heavier than other beads, you should mostly use them as accent beads.
Glass and wood are popular in making jewelry as well. While they can be as inexpensive as plastic beads, glass and wood are certainly more organic and combine well with more expensive beads. Glass beads provide inexpensive sparkle and can take your jewelry design up a notch. Wood beads are perfect if you need a neutral look, but want to express individuality.
Beads come in shapes other than round, but one thing all bead shapes have in common are holes. Not only do the beads come in different sizes, but the holes have different sizes as well. Large beads do not necessarily have large holes, although small beads tend to have relatively small holes.
While it's easy to feel intimidated by beautiful beadwork, learning how to follow basic beading instructions is surprisingly simple. |
Make beautiful jewelry using these beading techniques, which are both fun and remarkably easy to do. |
Get great advice with our beading guide including tips on basic beading instructions, essential beading supplies, beginner beading projects, creative beading ideas, using a beading loom and more. |
If you are new to beading, taking on some simple jewelry beading projects will help you learn the craft and produce stunning pieces of jewelry at the same time. |
If you are going to be working with beading patterns, it is important to know how to read these patterns before you begin. |
There are many beading ideas that can create high-end looks at a low-end cost. Once you learn the fundamentals, beading goes far beyond basic necklace strands. |
If you want to buy a beading loom, it is crucial that you take a moment to think about what kind of loom would best meet your beading needs. |
Beaders should always be sure to have the right beading supplies on hand for their newest project. |
Look no further than simple bead crafts and projects if you are looking for a fun craft process that yields impressive looking results. |
