Archive for October, 2008
Moonstones belong to the mineral group feldspar. Almost two thirds of the rocks on Earth belong to the feldspar group. Traditional moonstones usually come from Sri Lanka. But they can also be found in Brazil, the United States, Australia, Madagascar and Myanmar. In recent years these stones have gained great popularity and can be quite expensive.
Moonstones come in a variety of colors and shapes. In the last few years green, brown, orange, black and red stones have been seen on the market in addition to the traditional blue. If you’ve noticed that those moonstone earrings your sister wears have a mysterious “shimmer” quality, you are probably noticing what’s called ‘adularisation’. This is when light rays are refracted and scattered in the stone. This process causes the unique light effect that prompts the stone to be so distinctive and desirable.
Wire wrap jewelry is wearable art. Learning how to make wire wrap jewelry can allow you to create personalized pieces that show your style to the world. Before you start you’ll need a few tools; pliers, side cutter, a pin vise, a ring mandrel, a rawhide mallet, a millimeter gauge, a needle file, steel ruler, and a steel scribe are all required. Any local craft shop should have these items.
Next you will need wire. You have several choices in this area. Experienced jewelry makers say brass is the best for beginners, but you an also choose from; bronze, gold, sliver and colored niobum.
Beads should be the next item on your shopping list. Large glass beads are the easiest to work with. You may want to use smaller beads when making wire wrap bracelets. Make sure beads’ holes are large enough to slip into the gauge wire you will be choosing. Start by arranging your beads on a towel in a pattern that pleases you. Leave space between each bead in order to fit the wire through.