The most common jewellery findings - earring wires, crimp beads, eyepins, headpins and clasps - are usually made of either silver wire or sterling silver. There are a plethora of other, more specialist findings (for watchstrap projects and more costume-based accessories), but letandrsquo;s start with the basics.
Crimp beads should be an essential part of every jewellery makerandrsquo;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 the loop to complete a clasp. The metal is soft and once the crimp bead is in position, a pair of flat-nosed or crimping pliers 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 andlsquo;riflingandrsquo; effect, which allows for good purchase when using the pliers.
If you are making earrings, silver findings are also something that should have a home in your equipment drawer. Earring wires come either with a loop on the end, allowing you to design andlsquo;teardropandrsquo; style designs with a bead or drilled pearl attached, or flat head ends, which support a bead or series of beads on the length of the wire. If you are making earrings, it is a worthwhile investment to use sterling silver findings, as some people can have an allergic reaction to the nickel coated wires. The sterling silver findings may cost a few pence more, but they give added value to your finished product and can prevent an unpleasant skin reaction in the wearer.
The one finding that everyone uses without exception is the humble jump ring. A simple circle of silver wire, it has a cut in its circumference, allowing the ring to be opened and pressed closed again. This allows the jump ring to act as a loop between the end of a necklace, for example, and the clasp. Without the jump ring, jewellery making becomes much harder! You can make your own jump rings by simply winding a piece of silver wire around an awl and then using very sharp snips to cut your rings free, but this can be wasteful and you cannot guarantee that your resulting rings will be perfectly circular. This will make them harder to crimp. Once the jump ring has been attached, it is then advisable to solder the join, preventing it from pulling open and breaking the connection between the end of the necklace or bracelet and the clasp.
Itandrsquo;s not just necklaces, earrings and bracelets that incorporate silver findings into their design. Jewellery making is a creative occupation, and there are thousands of different findings for every type of jewellery - from cheerful costume pieces to delicate filigree work and precious stone settings. A good jewellery supplier will carry a wide range of findings, both silver and carat gold. Once you get better at your craft, you can even start to design and create your own.

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Article Submitted By: Adam Hunter
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