How to Create Crystal Jewelry

Creating crystal jewelry or adding crystals to a design gives it pizazz

Using crystals to create sparkling jewelry is easy to accomplish. Whether you are making a piece entirely of crystals, or adding crystals to a piece that includes other materials like pearls or gemstones, you are sure to add a special brilliance to any design you can imagine.

Things You'll Need

• Crystal beads
• Beading thread or wire
• Clasp
• Crimping beads
• Other material (pearls, gemstones, beads)
• Crimping tool

Instructions

1. Design your project. Before you can begin to create any jewelry piece, decide what kind of piece you want to create, what crystals the piece will have, the type of closure for the piece and so forth. If you are creating an entire piece from crystal beads, consider using various sizes in your design to give some interest to the piece. If you are combining the crystals with other material, think about the number of crystals you will be including in the piece to enhance it.

2. Assemble your supplies. Make sure you have the appropriate number of crystals and other materials to complete your project. Lay out the design on a beading cloth and take this opportunity to make any changes you deem necessary before beginning to string your jewelry.

3. 

   String your design. Begin on one end of your design by stringing and securing one side of the clasp (if you are using one). This will provide an anchor for the rest of your beading project.

4. 

   Thread each crystal, bead, pearl or gemstone in place according to your design placement. Continue until your design is complete.

5. Finish the piece by attaching the other half of the clasp and securing it with crimping beads. Your jewelry is now ready to wear.

Resources

• Firemountain Beads and Gems