How To Save Money On Jewelry Making Supplies

What’s better than making jewelry? How about saving money while you’re doing it? Beads, wire, stones and tools can add up to a mighty sum. Jewelry tools and jewelry supplies can add up to a small fortune if you let it. Here are some great ideas for saving money on beads and such.

1. Shop Around and Do Some Research.

It’s good to shop around and see where the deals are. Us creative folks tend to be quite loyal, but there is nothing wrong with looking outside your usual supplier for your beading needs. There are a lot of great sources online, and be sure to sign up for newsletters to get those money saving email notices.

2. Buy in Bulk When You Can.

Buying in bulk can save you a bundle. This doesn’t only apply to rice and toilet paper. You’d be amazed of how much you can save by buying a certain amount of beads, wire, chain… My favorite supplier has deals at certain price points for beads, and if you are buying sterling silver or gold sheet or wire, I don’t have to tell you about the bulk price breaks there, do I? You’ll need this stuff eventually, so in the long run, you save time too!

3. Watch for Garage Sales.

Other people’s junk can be a jewelry maker’s treasure. Don’t necessarily look at an item “as is”. Remember that everything can be taken apart and used for its spareparts.
Old costume jewelry necklaces for example can be taken apart and components can be reused. What about old watches? The Steampunk movement has made watch parts a hot commodity. Even if you don’t do the Steampunk thing yourself, you can barter watch parts with another crafter to get stuff she doesn’t need, but you do!

4. Check out Thrift stores.

Other than bell-bottoms and romance novels, there are other great finds in those mothball-smelling treasure troves. They are one of the best places to find old costume jewelry, and I’m talking CHEAP! And if you’re really lucky and determined, you might even find some actual vintage pieces.

5. Think Outside of the Bead Box.

As my 6-yewar-old daughter says, we need to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle more. Jewelry can literally be made out of anything, so look around. Bits of ribbon, bottle caps, game pieces, and those old watches once again… getting creative will save you money and result in a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

6. Shop at the Hardware Store instead of the Bead Store.

If you need wire, chains, links and the like, head to the source! Amid countless racks, rolls and hardware bins you will find jewelry fixings at rock-bottom prices. My favorite hardware store jewelry supply is black annealed steel wire in 18 gauge. There’s usually a good supply of copper wire in different gauges at my local harware store too. You will also find other things you can’t live without, such as storage bins and baskets, small hand tools, and soldering equipment.

7. Barter and Trade.

Don’t forget the best way to get stuff for free – by trading your worthless junk for someone else’s treasure. Of course what’s worthless to one isn’t to another, so those beads and wire that you hate might be just the ticket for someone else. There are many jewelry making forums online that have a “barter board”. See if you can’t find someone to trade with there.

8. Group Buys

Another ways to save money is to buy in bulk with others. If you don’t need 5 troy ounces of sterling silver wire but still want that price break, see if you can find someone to go in with you. If you are part of a Bead Society that is a great place to inquire. You can also post classified ads, look on jewelry making forums, or post the request on twitter to see if you can find some thrifty buying partners.

9. Ask for Supplies for Christmas or Your Birthday

Have you ever gotten a birthday gift that just wasn’t all that useful to you? What about that ugly vase or those Halloween seasonal towels that you never remember to take out during the Halloween season. People often hate trying to find the “perfect gift” and would love to have you tell them what you’d like. Don’t be shy with friends and family. They would rather get you something you love and enjoy than buy you another Santa mug at Christmas. Once they know you want bead store gift cards, they’ll be thrilled to not have to think about what to get you.

As you can see, there are tons of ways to save money if you are resourceful. Don’t get stuck thinking you can’t afford the good stuff, because you can if you take some extra effort.

An essential shopping guide for buying precious jewelry

Are you invited to the wedding of your close relative? We assume that you must have thought of gifting something precious. How about trying out some dainty platinum cufflinks for the bride groom and precious gold earnings for the bride? The newly married couple will be overwhelmed when you hand them over the precious jewelries.

Here is a simple precious jewelry shopping guide for you. Check out!

Know why you are paying more

When you visit a jewelry store and select a pair of earnings, they will produce a bill for that after your final consent. But never forget to ask the jeweler why the prices went up. Remember that precious jewelries essentially have real gems etched onto them or are made out of precious metals like gold, silver and platinum. So, even if you have willingly shopped precious jewelry you need to know why it is expensive.

Ask for certification

When you buy precious jewelry, the jewelry store is supposed to provide evidences of its authenticity. For instance, when you buy gold Comete rings the jeweler will stamp the jewelry with its Hallmark sign. Likewise, a real diamond studded necklace will have the necessary government certification which substantiates that you made the right purchase.

Always accept printed bills

You may come across a jewelry store which tries to convince you that a handwritten bill generated against your purchase will save some bucks. Never rely on them as they are cheats who do not wish to keep proof of their malpractice!

Buy from a reliable store

Whether you make your regular purchases from online store or physical stores, reliability of the store will count a lot when you buy precious jewelry. In case of online stores, look for the necessary licenses which certify that the goods sold though the store are of high quality. In case of physical stores, keep your eyes open to analyze every piece of Cufflinks jewelry before closing the deal with a sumptuous amount of money. Never let the jewel cheat you by selling substandard products at a dear price.

Bank on referrals

Even if the fascia of an online store makes you believe it is authentic, you might get fooled at the end of the transaction! Similarly, the jeweler in physical stores might fool you by offering a gold jewelry filled with impurities in exchange of a hefty billing amount! Unfortunately, you cannot catch them red-handed as it needs expert insight. Therefore, it is always safer to bank on references of people who have already made purchases through the online and physical stores and are satisfied with their service. The chances of getting cheated are rare when you rely on referrals.

Artificial Jewellery – A Most Trendy And Economic Form Of Jewelry

Jewelry has been most important form of personal adornment for women since time immemorial. Jewelry is often considered as synonymous with the customs and traditions of the country. Artificial jewellery is quite affordable form of jewelery. These types of jewelery are specially crafted for a particular outfit or dress. The life of this jewelery is just to meet the prevailing fashion trend, as fashion take a turn, they become outdated. Since it is inexpensive, it is easier to dispose old jewelery and get new one.

Gone are the days when people are used to heavy chains and necklaces of gold, silver and diamonds. Now a days, Artificial jewellery is consider as most trendy and economic form of jewelry. Artificial jewelery not only add charm in ones personality but also shows fashion and dressing sense, because of same designs as like the original jewelry has. The Main difference between original jewelry and Artificial jewelry is that original jewelry is made up of very precious metal and the designing is very unique And artificial jewelry is made of cheap metal but It is made like real expensive jewelry.

With the vast change in fashion, lifestyle and safety measures, Artificial jewelery is gaining popularity among other kind of jewelery and precious stones. Another reason for increase in demand for artificial jewelry is the soaring gold prices. Moreover, real jewelery doesnt suits teenage and college going group as per their modern dressing sense. In contract, artificial jewellery is made of material that can reflect colorful pattern which suits modern dressing such as glass, plastic, artificial stones, gems, beads, paper, wood, jute, shells, metals etc.

Usually modern artificial jewelery differ from old collection in style, looks and designs. There are some which either resembles original gold ornaments or antique jewellery or entirely new in collection of designs. Modern artificial jewelry have a a significant role as selection is to be made through an immense variety and quality, that is matches with desired outfit and occasion. Artificial bracelets, earrings, rings and necklaces are available in attractive range and designs for all occasion such as formal events, get-together, party or even for weddings. Artificial kundan jewelery with traditional pattern reviving their fashion importance among Indian women. Meenakari jewelry from Gujarat and Rajasthan is one of such interesting Indian artificial jewelry whose aesthetic appeal is popular throughout the globe.

These days, Artificial jewelry is high in demand across the globe. Asian countries like India and China exports major parts of the jewelry to nations such as UK, USA, Australia, which have high demand of this type of jewelry. Indian artificial jewelry is famous in all over the world due to its uniqueness and prettiness. In India, it can be purchased either online or from the local market, There are several b2b portals where you can get list of Artificial jewelery manufacturers, Artificial jewelery suppliers,exporters,wholesalers with their contact and product details as per your requirement. But you must chose a reliable portal to got your jewelry.

Bike Chain Jewelry Vs Real Bike Chains

Bike chains are used nowadays for more than forward motivation of bicycle and rider. The latest trend is adapting the special chain design to create mens bracelets. More innovation has led to necklaces and women/ladies bike chain jewelry. The latter uses a smaller width chain (also known as roller width in the bicycle world) for a feminine feel and comfort appeal. But what are the differences between a bike chain bracelet or necklace made specifically for jewelry use, and an actual bike chain? Read on to find out.
For starters, bike chains used for jewelry and bicycles/motorbikes:
A) are typically made with stainless steel
B) consist of a roller (which usually sits on the sprocket of a bike)
C) and inner and outer stainless steel plates.
Though the roller and plates covers most of the parts, thats where the similarities end.

Actual Chains Used in Bikes and Motorcycles

1. A bike chain used for its originally intended purpose may/or may not use bushings inside the rollers.
2. Pins (or rivets) are used to connect the links. Because the chain needs to be sturdy, the pin is designed to hold the roller firmly against the outside of the chain. No side to side play is allowed so that the chain glides perfectly on the sprocket of a bike.
3. No special finishes are applied, and grease is used to keep the chain bending smoothly as intended
4. Due to the rigid design, an actual bike chain is not very comfortable to wear.

Bike Chain Bracelets and Necklaces

1. No bushings are used in the rollers as it is not necessary when a bike chain is adapted for jewelry use.
2. To make bike chain jewelry comfortable and practical for daily wear, a hollow tube and a small pin are used to connect the links. There is a bit of sideways play allowed for the roller via this design which makes the chain more flexible. The result is increased comfort.
3. Extra machine polishing should be applied to the chains if the chain is properly designed and made for jewelry use. To further improve shine, a thin clearcoat may be applied in higher-end designs. Nickel plating is also used at times, so people with nickel allergies be sure to verify before purchasing.
4. No grease is needed or used
5. A fold-over clasp is the best method for a bracelet or necklace as its very secure. A lobster clasp is more brittle but is easier to use when taking on or off your jewelry.

The overall design appears to be the same, but for the many reasons listed here, the typical bike chain design requires a few changes before it can be used as daily jewelry. As with a regular bike or motorbike, changing the links of a bracelet or necklace can be demanding and require unconventional tools. This makes it hard to resize the length of the chain which will usually be necessary for a perfect fit.

Four Essential Factors For Choosing Jewelry

Most people choose jewelry for body adornments, while some will keep it as collection, even investment. At this time, you should be cautious of the choice of jewelry. Now, Ill introduce you four essential factors for choosing jewelry.

First, pay attention to the material. At present, the material of jewelry becomes more and more diversity. There are various types of material available in the market, including silver, rhinestone, gemstone, crystal, and glass, pearl, coral, agate, jade, jasper, etc. For collection or investment, you shouldnt ignore the selection of material. Its better to purchase high-grade jewelry for its guarantee of quality. The best material for high-grade jewelry would be precious metal, such as, gold, platinum, for precious metal will be able to maintain its value. In addition, rare semi-precious stones and diamonds of superior quality are also fine jewelry material. Nowadays, most jewelry in the market experience artificial processing to exaggerate their value. So, people should be careful.

Second, attach importance to the manufacture process. Each jewelry brand has its own traditional and unique design and mosaic technology. Unique craftsmanship, brand individuality and characteristic are indispensable elements for any piece of fine jewelry. In addition to striking styles, craftsman should emphasize the glory of material itself, let the material shinning its luster. Perfect workmanship, flexible change, and careful design are all necessary conditions for fine jewelry. A fine jewelry will be able to show wearers beauty.

Third, lay stress on the artistic of jewelry. People are always pursuing sense of beauty. So, the artistic towards jewelry is very important. The inspiration for creation is often from the real life. Designers use the objects in daily life as the model for jewelry making in the form of imitation, such as, animal and plant. They are themes usually employed in jewelry. Beauty is the important element of creation. People can experience deep aesthetic perception from a successful works.

Fourth, lay emphasis on the historical sense. Before deciding to collect a piece of jewelry, you should also take its historical value into consideration. Besides the design style, you can check the rarity and warranty value of the gemstone which inlayed on the jewelry. With the change of nature and exploit of human, it is hard to find natural ores. The opportunity to find pure gemstone becomes less and less.

Besides the above four factors, there are many other aspects that will do affect in choosing jewelry. Nevertheless, if you can take all the four essential parts into consideration and check careful, Im sure it is enough for choosing jewelry of real value.