Using Gemstones in Jewelry Designs

Using gemstones in your jewelry designs can add uniqueness, character, and personalization to your creations. If you are selling your jewelry, they can also add value and desirability. Gemstones come in a large array of sizes, shapes, and types making it is easy to find something that will work with your personal esthetic. Whether you want dainty little round gemstones wire wrapped in sterling silver wire or large gemstones that can be focals for strung jewelry designs, adding a gemstone to your design instantly makes it stand out.

Gemstones can also add a personal touch. Each month of the year has its associated birthstone, and if you are making jewelry as a gift, this is a great way to personalize your design for the recipient. I still remember the amethyst jewelry my grandmother gifted me with for all my February birthdays. We have created a birthstone guide to help identify which gemstone and which color is associated with each month. 

For some inspiration, look at these lovely designs by TierraCast that use gemstones to make the designs pop! In these cases, the gemstones are paired with their antiqued pewter components which provide a striking contrast to the vibrancy of the gemstones. The pewter pieces are all part of the new La Pura Vida Collection by TierraCast.

One of our favorite brands of gemstones are Dakota Stones. We selected to carry them because of their high quality and uniformity of the gemstones. I also love that their holes are neatly drilled and large enough to easily pass a needle through (as one works more with gemstones, you come to realize that this is not always the case). The colors of their stones are also beautiful! Here are three of my favorite Dakota Stones Gemstones: 

 Dakota Stones Gemstone Beads, Purple Crazy Lace Agate, Round 4mm (8 Inch Strand)

If you are new to working with gemstones, consider watching some of these videos to get started.

Featured Video: How to Make Pinch Bail Gemstone Earrings

Featured Video: How to Make Wire Wrapped Components for the Desert Shores Earrings

Featured Video: How to Make the Wanderer Memory Wire Bracelet Set

Find gemstone inspiration for your next project by seeing all Beadaholique's in stock gemstones HERE!