Jewelry Making Essentials
Look up definitions for unfamiliar terms, find out how to determine a ring size, check the hardness of a jewel, and perform other important jewelrymaking tasks.
AIA Jewelry Making Articles
This is a list of all of the original articles, reviews, and tutorials that have been written for AIA Jewelry Making.
Choosing Wire for Jewelry
You've heard it said that you should choose the proper tool for the proper job. The axiom is true for wire when making jewelry. Here's a look at some of the factors to consider before you start to work wire. I've also included a table listing my favorite types of wire for different projects.
Common Jewelry Sizes
You can make your jewelry any size you want, but it's handy to know what sizes are in stores for comparison or in case you are making lots of an item to fit 'most' people. Here's a list of the most common lengths for necklaces, bracelets, and anklets.
Determining Your Ring Size - Ring Sizing Chart
Use these instructions and International conversion chart to determine your ring size and convert the size to its equivalent in other countries.
Ergonomics & Making Jewelry
Use ergonomic principles to assess where you make jewelry and how you make it to help prevent injuries and maximize your productivity.
Gemstone Colors
Looking for new color combinations? Browse this list of gemstone colors for ideas (or to figure out what an unknown stone looks like). It isn't an exhaustive list, but most readily-available stones are cited.
Gift Ideas for Jewelry Makers
Do you draw a blank when someone asks you what you want for a gift? Here's a list of gift ideas for beaders and jewelry makers.
Glass Bead Types & Finishes
Do you know what it means for a bead to have a marea or ceylon finish? Can you tell a charlotte from a hex cut? This pair of charts describes glass bead types and finishes.
Glossary of Jewelry Making Terms
I'm adding terms as I go along to accompany the articles. If you have a term you would especially like to see defined, shoot me an e-mail and I'll give it preferential treatment.
Health Hazards - Children's Jewelry
If you are going to make jewelry for kids, make safe jewelry! Most people are aware of the lead risk of certain metal pieces, but there are hazards associated with other materials, too.
How Many Beads Do You Need?
This is a collection of useful tables, including beads per gram, beads per inch or centimeter, beads per square inch or square centimeter, beads per 16" (common strand length), and average number of beads per package size.
How to Close a Crimp Bead
Crimping is a technique used to secure beading wire. It's commonly used to connect clasps, although it can also be used as a design element, too. Basically, it involves crushing a metal bead or coil onto the wire, to hold it in place. Here's how you do it!
How to Price Handcrafted Jewelry
Do you want to sell your handcrafted jewelry? First you'll need to set prices. Your final prices will be unique to your circumstances, but here are some pricing formulas to get you started.
How to Solder Sterling Silver Jump Rings
Whether you make your own jump rings or purchase them, sometimes you will need to make them into solid rings. Don't be intimidated by soldering - it's easy!
Ideas for Bridal Jewelry & Wedding Gifts
Bridal jewelry is one of the most important parts of today´s wedding ensemble. Do you want to make jewelry and accessories for weddings, but you aren't sure what to do? This article will spark ideas for bridal jewelry and wedding gifts.
Ideas for Patriotic Jewelry
Do you want to show some U.S. spirit? Find out about the different styles of jewelry available to display your national pride and patriotism.
Jewelry for Men
Jewelry isn't just for women! Here are some ideas for men's jewelry and tips for fashionable male accessorizing.
Making Jewelry for Men - Lengths & Sizes
Men love jewelry too, but many otherwise confident designers shy away from making male accessories. Use this table of common sizes for men's jewelry to make jewelry for men to give or sell.
Materials for Piercings/Body Jewelry
You have to be very careful in your choice of materials for piercings and body jewelry! Here's an overview of what you need to know. This info is great to have, whether you make the jewelry or wear it.
Mohs Scale of Hardness
Diamonds are forever, but a lot of gemstones will scratch or wear away if used in inappropriate settings. Check where a stone stands on the Mohs hardness scale, especially before using it in a ring or bracelet. I've listed the hardness of some common household items so you can test a material's hardness yourself.
Origins of Jewelry Names
Learn the origins of jewelry words, such as 'necklace', 'bracelet', 'earrings'.
Pearl Tests - How to Tell Real from Fake
If you have pearls or are thinking of getting them or selling them, you will want to know how to tell real pearls from fakes. Here's how to know whether or not you have the real thing.
Why Buy from Online Jewelry Designers?
Online jewelry designers offer fresh, innovative styles at great prices. Find out what the designer can offer that you won´t find in a big store.
