Jewellery findings are the seemingly insignificant but vitally important components of any type of jewelery making. Without crimp beads, for example, it would be difficult to get a professional looking finish to a necklace or bracelet clasp. Jewellery findings are the solution to all jewelery making techniques, and as such a good understanding of their importance in your designs and work is essential.
The most common jewelery findings - earring wires, crimp beads, Eyepins, headpins and clasps - are usually made of either silver or sterling silver wire. There are a plethora of other, more specialist findings (for watchstrap projects and more costume-based accessories), but let's start with the basics.
Crimp beads should be an essential part of every jewelery maker's toolbox, especial those working with beads. These simple (usually silver) beads are used to cover knots in the thread or to secure a loop in a necklace or bracelet string, making it possible to attach a jump ring to complete the loop to a clasp. The metal is soft and once the crimp bead is in position, a pair of flat-nosed pliers or crimping can be used to compress the bead, securing it in place. It takes a little practice to compress the finding without distorting it, so Ensure that you apply the pressure evenly and gently. There are a variety of styles available, some smooth and others with a 'rifling' effect, Which Allows for good purchase when using the pliers.
The most common jewelery findings - earring wires, crimp beads, Eyepins, headpins and clasps - are usually made of either silver or sterling silver wire. There are a plethora of other, more specialist findings (for watchstrap projects and more costume-based accessories), but let's start with the basics.
Crimp beads should be an essential part of every jewelery maker's toolbox, especial those working with beads. These simple (usually silver) beads are used to cover knots in the thread or to secure a loop in a necklace or bracelet string, making it possible to attach a jump ring to complete the loop to a clasp. The metal is soft and once the crimp bead is in position, a pair of flat-nosed pliers or crimping can be used to compress the bead, securing it in place. It takes a little practice to compress the finding without distorting it, so Ensure that you apply the pressure evenly and gently. There are a variety of styles available, some smooth and others with a 'rifling' effect, Which Allows for good purchase when using the pliers.
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