What exactly are jewellery findings? You have most likely seen them spelled jewelry findings? The first spelling is the UK spelling. They are used in making all types of jewellery including fashion costume jewellery.
They are the hardware employed in making jewellery. In particular, findings are the items used to hold your chains and gemstones together. They are either made from sterling silver, gold or a base metal plated with a valuable metal.
A lot of people who make jewelry, buy the most beautiful gemstones or chains, etc and then use the least expensive findings. This is a HUGE mistake! A word to the wise though, for a few pennies more, get the genuine deal…you won’t regret it!
For instance, if you are making sterling silver jewelry, the best advice is to use only sterling silver findings. Why, because it will look cheap and it won’t hold up if you use stainless steel or some other inferior base metal. Why would you put all this money time and effort, only to save a few pennies and then have your work of art come out looking less than it could have been?
Now that you know you need quality, let’s talk about the different types of jewelry findings. Don’t you love toggles? I have always adored the way they looked, but wondered if they might stay fastened on my body. I can honestly say, I’ve never lost any jewellery due to it being a toggle clasp. Talk about dressing up a piece of jewelery, let me tell you, a classy toggle can do just that!
However, for folks that just don’t feel safe with a toggle clasp, let me tell you about an alternative. A sterling silver lobster clasp offers you a secure option that still looks good.
Ear Wires and Earring Findings are extremely popular jewellery findings. These are used for all the dangle earrings you see adorning individuals worldwide.
Crimp bead and tubes are tiny metal beads that flatten when squeezed with a crimping tool or pliers. You use them with flexible beading wire to glue a clasp.
Just like with anything new, it can be overwhelming at first. But don’t let that stop you! Just let your enthusiasm for creating unique pieces of jewelry carry you through the learning curve. You will be throwing these terms around in no time.
Find out more about Jewellery findings you need and how to use them and where to find the best deals. You won’t believe how easy it is once you start experimenting.
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