How to Make an Amber Teething Necklace

Amber teething necklaces are strings of amber beads worn by the baby or by the mother who puts it in contact with the baby's skin. Amber is a natural analgesic and the warmth of the body causes it to release oils that help babies relax while experiencing the pain of teething. They have been used for many generations in Europe and make a good substitute for pain relief drugs.

Things You'll Need

• Baltic amber beads
• Silk or nylon beading cord
• Plastic clasp

Instructions

1. Choose amber beads that are smooth and rounded, without any jagged areas. Depending on the size of the beads you choose, you will need between 30 and 60. Be sure to purchase your amber from a reputable source - you need genuine Baltic amber. Some dishonest suppliers mix plastic into their amber. You can alternate different colors of amber if you wish.

2. Select a 15" length of thin nylon or silk beading cord. The easiest way to knot an amber necklace is to use two strands of beading cord that are small enough so that they can both fit through the holes of your beads. For 6 mm beads, a size 2 cord will be just right.

3. Tie the two 15" lengths of cord together at one end.

4. Secure one end of the cord to the clasp. The process for this differs according to the type of clasp you've chosen. You may either have to knot the end of the cord and glue it inside one end of the clasp, or clamp the knot inside a clamp shell. The clasp should be plastic, so that it will break away with pressure.

5. Slip the loose ends of the cords inside a bead and pull the bead all the way down the length of the cords.

6. Make an overhand knot and double it.

7. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until approximately 1 inch remains on the end (or more, depending on how you secured the other end to the clasp). The overall length of the finished necklace should be about 13". Make sure there is a secure knot between each bead. This prevents the beads from becoming choking hazards if the necklace were to break.

8. Attach the end of the necklace to the other side of the clasp.

Tips & Warnings

• Nylon cord is more durable than silk, so it may be better for this necklace.