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How-To

DIY Masculine Lanyard Necklace

December 13, 2019

When I think about “Men’s jewelry”, bolo ties, belt buckles, cuff links, and tie clips come to mind (plus heavy gold-chain necklaces ala 1980’s Mr T). But what makes a piece of jewelry masculine? The key to making masculine jewelry is using masculine supplies and keeping it simple. Combine strong leather or waxed cotton cord with bone beads, metal beads, or glass trade beads and then add bold focal pendant. It is also a benefit if the jewelry has a utilitarian purpose.

Here is my version of “men’s jewelry” –an adjustable lanyard necklace made with guy supplies; it can be used to hold a decorative pendant or be more utilitarian as a key holder. Follow these steps to make your own:

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Jewelry Making Tutorial November Topaz

November 19, 2019

Swarovski topaz crystals are the perfect shade of rich golden yellow for classic November birthstone jewelry. Paired with the warmth of gold-filled findings, topaz is the perfect celebration of Autumn colors. And whether you are born in November, or just a lover of all things golden, this earring project is perfect for you.

Follow these instructions to make your own pair of “Tic-Tac-Toe” Earrings:

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September Sapphire

September 20, 2019

Sapphire and sterling silver are a perfect combination. This September birthstone pairing features mini-sized Swarovski crystal briolette pendants, small sterling-silver crescent-moon connector charms and petite sterling silver earwires. This design is also easily adaptable for use with any birthstone color (or just your favorite color).

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How to Make Spiral Head Pins

August 23, 2019

Head pins are a jewelry-making staple. But in many cases, though they are necessary, they don’t add much in design value to a jewelry piece. Rings & Things offers several styles of ready-made head pins. And yes, some of the head pins Rings & Things carries are rather fancy, but not what I had in mind for a simple mixed-metal pair of earrings I was making. I needed something dramatic to combine with my favorite primitive India metal beads and a spiral shape seemed like the perfect thing. So, not having ready-made spiral head pins available, I set out to make some. (And you can too!)

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DIY Jewelry – How to Make a Magnetic Clasp Converter

June 28, 2019

Have you ever struggled with clasping a necklace or bracelet? If so, you will love magnetic clasp converters! The magnetic clasp converter attaches to your existing jewelry and converts your manual clasp into a magnetic clasp. It requires just minutes to make, and the only skill you need is the ability to open and close a jump ring. Follow these easy steps to make your own:

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Jewelry Making Tutorial June Earrings

May 31, 2019

Tomorrow marks the first day of June and when I think of June jewelry, I think pearls. Pearls are a favorite birthstone choice for June and popular for bridal jewelry. I set out to make earrings that combine traditional and contemporary style. I found the perfect sterling-silver component in the “New Items” section of Rings & Things’ website; it’s a funky three-link connector that goes perfectly with Swarovski pear-shaped crystal pearls.

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The 15-Minute Earring Tutorial

May 3, 2019

Do you have 15 extra minutes? Then you have time to make a new pair of earrings! Just combine your favorite decorative connector links with Swarovski crystal pendants to create these fast and easy earrings.

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