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Stemming from the Greek term “cyan,” which means “dark blue,” kyanite is a mineral considered by many to have truly magical properties and a beautiful gem. This gem is found throughout the world and is often sourced from Switzerland, Kenya, Nepal, the United States, Brazil, or Zimbabwe. While the variations of kyanite can come about in different ways, most are derived from metamorphic formations. The following is a breakdown of everything you need to know about kyanite and creating stunning jewelry with these amazing beads.

Are Kyanite Beads Always Blue?

No, they aren’t always blue. While they are named after a Greek term that means blue, which is also the most common color, not all kyanite beads are colored blue. There are various shades of blue, to be sure, but kyanite can also be found more rarely in green, pink, orange, yellow, and even black. In addition, because of the translucent nature of the gem, stones can almost morph into different colors or shades of colors. For example, they can seemingly turn from greenish blue to purple in particular light. However, the appeal of the blue hue cannot be underestimated as some gem lovers feel that kyanite can be used as blue sapphire lookalikes.

Are Kyanite Beads Good For Jewelry?

Yes. The blue mineral is an attractive option for jewelry with well-formed crystals, making it popular with jewelry makers. As a result, its vibrant, eye-catching appearance makes it a sought after stone to use in jewelry making. It can be paired with other gems as well. In addition, the cool blue hue of the kyanite beads pairs well with silver or contrasts attractively with gold, rose gold, or copper.

Caring For Kyanite Beads and Jewelry

Kyanite beads can be worn daily but be sure to shield them from chemicals and harsh impact. They should be stored in a shaded, cool area to help maintain their color vibrancy. To clean and care for kyanite, use mild soap, warm water, and a soft brush to gently clean jewelry. It’s also a good idea to keep kyanite away from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It’s important to remember that kyanite is a bit fragile. Therefore, pendants and earrings are a wise use of this gem. When creating jewelry where it is strung next to other gemstones, it’s helpful to knot it to protect the kyanite from cleaving or shearing due to impact with other gemstones.

Types of Kyanite Beads and Design Possibilities

Now that we have considered the way to care for kyanite and determined that it is, in fact, a good option for various types of jewelry, let’s look at the types of kyanite beads you might find and how they can be styled into beautiful pieces of jewelry. Read on for a breakdown of the design possibilities:

Square Beads

Blue or green kyanite beads can be made into square beads with a smooth, flat surface. They make beautiful necklaces because they will hang flush to the neck. They can be paired with other gems or left on their own to make a stunning necklace. They are also ideal for stud earrings or even dangling earrings for a stunning look.

Natural Crystal Beads

The natural form of kyanite is a crystal-like nugget or stick-shaped. The sizes vary, so they can make a unique necklace when strung together. Since the shape is not uniform, each necklace will look slightly different. Of course, they will all look stunning with this natural crystal look.

Oval or Circle Coin Beads

Coin beads, along with oval shapes, are ideal to use to string a necklace. In addition, they can be paired with other types of gems or beads to create a more dramatic look. The oval shape or teardrop beads can be used to create pendants or focal pieces of a necklace or beautiful earrings.

Round Beads

Perhaps the type of kyanite gem that is the easiest to work with and create with is the beads. You can get them in blue, green, teal, or other hue of kyanite and layer them to create depth to the necklace or bracelet. These create stunning pieces of jewelry that can be layered with other types of jewelry or worn alone.

Ways to Style Kyanite Jewelry

The following are some ways to incorporate kyanite jewelry into your wardrobe. Of course, don’t feel locked into these suggestions, but they do make a good jumping-off point when designing a piece:

• Earrings: This is a popular way to incorporate a pop of color into your outfit without it seeming overwhelming or tacky. Kyanite can be used to create elaborate chandelier earrings or simple studs.

• Necklaces: Use kyanite to create necklaces of various lengths and styles. Pennants can be used, or even more elaborate layering of beads to make a statement. This can be worn with formal or casual outfits.

• Bracelets: Delicate chains with kyanite accents or layered cuffs can be a great way to add to your look. They can be worn alone or layered with other bracelets.

• Rings: Another not-as-common way to wear kyanite is by designing a ring. This can be stacked with other rings or work alone. You can opt for a more dramatic cocktail ring or a simple solitaire.

What Makes Kyanite a Good Gemstone for Jewelry

Since there are so many hues in kyanite gemstones, it can be used to create beautiful pieces of jewelry that compliment virtually anyone’s hair color, skin tone, and individual styles. They can be dressed up and bold or toned down and subtle, leaving the level of drama derived completely up to the designers themselves. In other words, it is a subdued yet complex gem that makes kyanite a classy yet bold choice. Although kyanite is a rare gem, its cost is not nearly as significant as other more expensive gems, like the aforementioned sapphire. In this way, even when budgets are somewhat limited, you can enjoy the beautiful look of a kyanite necklace, earrings, bracelet, or more. In addition, when you take care of your creation, its beauty will remain for years to come.

Although any piece of jewelry has the potential to become a powerful personal statement piece, a bracelet is an especially solid choice for lots of reasons. Bracelets are easy to integrate into any outfit, whether you’re putting together a polished office look or winding down in style for the weekend. They also catch the eye without taking away from the rest of your look.

Bracelets are also very easy to make, so they’re excellent pieces to start with if you’re interested in making your own jewelry. In this handy introduction to DIY bracelets, we’ll touch on some of what you need to know to get started in style.

The Magic of Handmade Statement Bracelets

Jewelry doesn’t necessarily need to be expensive to make a head-turning statement. In many instances, handmade options that feature unique bracelet beads and carefully chosen personal touches can say a lot more than even the finest mass-produced jewelry store options.

• Handmade bracelets are fun but effective ways to express your unique personality at a glance. They can also be subtle ways to show pride in your spiritual views, heritage, or family history.
• Statement bracelets are powerful conversation starters and effective ways to break the ice in various social situations.
• Making your own jewelry is empowering, relaxing, and emotionally enriching. Many people who wind up bitten by the jewelry-making bug also enjoy making items for loved ones or wind up turning their new hobby into a side hustle.

In other words, the decision to explore the wide, wonderful world of handmade bracelets for yourself opens the door to lots of fun possibilities.

How to Get Started with DIY Bracelet Beads

If you’re new to making your own jewelry, beaded bracelets are a great item to start with. The process is fairly simple and straightforward while still leaving lots of room for creativity and self-expression.

You also don’t need too many different supplies to get started, so bracelets are a terrific way to dip your toe into the waters of jewelry-making to see if it’s right for you. Let’s go over a few basics for getting started.

Gather some basic supplies

To get started with DIY beaded bracelets, you’ll need the following items:

• Thread, wire, or cord to hold your beads and form the basic structure of the bracelet
• Clasps to finish your bracelets and hold them securely closed during wear
• Crimp beads and jump rings to create finished, secure ends to your bracelets
• Jewelry-making pliers to help you curl, cut, and otherwise handle wire
• An organizer to hold all your supplies, as well as separate all your different beads

Choose your bracelet beads

Once you start exploring the world of bracelet beads, you’ll see that you have lots of different options to choose from, so take your time and consider your choices. Some questions to ask yourself when evaluating your options include:

• What kind of bracelet am I making? What do I plan to use it for?
• Do I want to wear my bracelet daily or is only for occasional use?
• What are my color preferences and why? What outfits do I see myself wearing this bracelet with?
• What’s my budget like? Am I on a tight leash or can I afford to splurge on something special?

Make sure you get your bracelet beads from a trustworthy dealer (like The Bead Traders, to name just one option). Ideally, you’re looking for a solid resource you can return to again and again for amazing selection, solid value, and fantastic customer service – someplace that always has something in stock that you can’t resist.

Learn some basic techniques

Social media platforms like YouTube or TikTok are excellent places to go for quick-start video demonstrations on how to make bracelets, so be sure to check them out for inspiration. But the basic method involved is actually really simple:

• Start by measuring your wrist and cutting your string, wire, or thread to size.
• Thread your beads onto your holding medium in whatever sequence or pattern you like.
• Finish your bracelet. If you’re using elastic cord or thread, you can use a square knot to tie off the ends and create the bracelet. If using wire or adding a clasp, use crimp beads, pliers, and the clasp/jump ring combo of your choice instead.

Creating Unique Bracelets That Tell a Story

Once you have the basics down, it’s time to start letting your creativity flow and crafting one-of-a-kind items that tell the world something special about yourself. Here are some tips for adding a pinch or two of flavor to your creations.

Explore bracelet beads with different meanings

Gemstones and beads are so much more than just pretty to look at. Each option comes attached to a unique meaning you can leverage to add significance to your bracelets. Here are some examples to consider when shopping for bracelet beads:

• Pearls represent concepts like elegance, purity, and wisdom.
• Opals are associated with inspiration, creativity, and protection from bad energy.
• Turquoise has long had ties to healing and spiritual protection.
• Onyx brings qualities like strength and focus to the table.
• Moonstone has strong associations with feminine energy and hope.

Do you want your bracelet to protect you from negative energy? Do you want it to help you cultivate personal qualities like strength, creativity, or wisdom? Choosing bracelet beads that support those objectives is a powerful way to create a statement piece you’ll never want to take off.

Consider adding charms to the mix

You can also help your bracelet literally tell a story by incorporating charms and other personal touches into the design. Consider symbolic choices that nod in the direction of significant life events, treasured personal interests, or personal symbols that hold special meaning for you.

Ultimately, the sky’s the limit when it comes to what you can create with the right bracelet beads and a little bit of creativity. Start your jewelry-making journey today and find the beads of your dreams at The Bead Traders! Whether you’re looking for something specific or just want to get inspired, we’ve got you covered.

There's something extremely enchanting about the night sky. Looking around you on a clearly lit night, with your surroundings basking in ethereal moonlight - provides a sense of wonder and imagination. This same mystery and wonder make moonstones so precious, taking the same magical feeling from the universe and condensing it into a beautiful piece of jewelry.

Moonstones have captivated the attention of many different cultures for centuries and are used for ornate designs, traditions, jewelry, and customs. Their connection to passive lunar energy is believed to hold mystical properties.

Today, moonstones are still a wonder that enthralls the senses. If you want to create more stunning pieces to add to your collection or provide for your loving clients, moonstone beads are waiting for you.

The Unique Beauty of The Moonstone

Every gem and stone is precious, and moonstones are no different. Moonstones have the absolute pleasure of taking part in adularescence, which optically creates a warm glow within the stone itself.

This means that when light hits the stone, the light refracts and scatters, giving that unique, mesmerizing play of color that resembles a moonlit sky or even moonlight shimmering on the surface of the water.

Moonstones come in a variety of colors. The most iconic colors you may have seen are white, gray, peach, and a shade of beige or yellow. There are also rarer types of moonstones, such as rainbow moonstones, which have a vibrant number of colors that display many different hues - purple, green, blue, and even a combination of all colors.

The play of light gives moonstones both its depth and intrigue. Gemstones usually offer a flat color, which can be used often when a simple design is necessary. Moonstones represent the colors of the universe, so the color changes depending on the angle of the view.

When purchasing moonstone beads for your collection, it's not uncommon that each piece will be a useful conversation starter.

Using Moonstone Beads For Your Creations

The beauty of moonstone beads lies not just in their aesthetics but also in their versatility.

Moonstone beads come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing you to unleash your creativity and design jewelry that reflects your unique style.

Here are some ways to incorporate moonstone beads into your creations:

• Elegance and Simplicity: For a timeless look, string delicate moonstone beads on a fine chain to create a minimalist necklace or bracelet. The subtle shimmer of the stones will add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
• Boho Chic: Channel your inner bohemian spirit by combining moonstone beads with other natural elements like wood, leather, or feathers. Larger moonstone beads can be used as statement pieces in necklaces or chunky bracelets.
• Modern Flair: Embrace a contemporary aesthetic by pairing moonstone beads with geometric shapes or metallic accents. This unexpected combination creates a striking and modern look.
• Layered Look: Don't forget about layering! Combine moonstone necklaces of varying lengths or pair a moonstone bracelet with a complementary gemstone like amethyst or labradorite. Layering adds depth and allows you to tell a more complex story with your jewelry.

The possibilities with moonstone beads are truly endless. Their versatility allows you to create pieces that are both elegant and playful, classic and modern.

Crafting With Moonstone Beads

Now that you understand the symbolism and beauty behind moonstone beads, you may be ready to craft with the beads. Before you embark on this journey, make sure you are considering the project ahead.

Determine the size, shape, color, and opulence the beads must have for your intended creation or project. The size determines the weight, while the cut and color will determine the brilliance of the adornment.

Silk is a popular choice for delicate pieces when stringing together your beads, while metal wires are very useful for heavier projects. Make sure to take into consideration how wiring can affect the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece.

Don't be afraid to experiment! Continue to explore for the best results, and take inspiration from all sources. You never know what you may find.

The Symbolism Behind Moonstones

Moonstones are not only a timeless classic that adds a flair of elegance and variety to your pieces; they also have some traditional symbolism behind them, carrying with them the wonders and mysteries of the universe.

Moonstones are our connection to lunar energy, which is believed to enhance intuitive perception and promote more emotional balance and well-being. This, in turn, is said to bring good fortune.

Wearing moonstone jewelry is a way to connect with these ancient beliefs and tap into their transformative power.

Here are the top three symbolic associations:

Intuition and Inner Wisdom

Moonstones are believed to enhance intuition and psychic abilities, which allow you to create and sense the deeper connection with your inner self.

Emotional Balance

The calming energy of the moonstone is said to promote emotional balance and stability, helping to alleviate common issues such as stress, anxiety, periodic depression, and bad moods.

Love and New Beginnings

The moonstone is associated with love and new beginnings. It's often given as a gift to symbolize strong new relationships, fresh starts, and a deep emotional connection with someone or a cause.

The Bead Traders: Quality Moonstones for Every Occasion

Moonstone beads are a wonderful addition to any collection, and can be used for a variety of purposes. Moonstone beads need to be sourced from ethical places, sustainably collected and should only be of the highest quality.

At The Bead Traders, we pride ourselves on our commitment to our suppliers and customers. We use sustainable and ethical practices to source only the finest gems and moonstones.

Whether you're looking to make complex and ornate displays or simple pieces or want to browse the collection, The Bead Traders is your one-stop shop for all things beads and gemstones.

Naturally, you can always buy cute beaded jewelry readymade for yourself or a loved one. But there’s just something about a piece you planned and created with your very own hands.

Making your own beaded jewelry is a terrific way to add a touch of personal flair to your accessory collection or spend a Sunday afternoon doing something creative. As a hobby, it’s affordable, fun, and relaxing. And truly beautiful beaded jewelry is easier than you think to make, even for beginners.

Beaded bracelets are terrific items to start with for lots of reasons. They’re approachable, easy to wear, and versatile. Here’s a closer look at how to make a bracelet with beads that you’re sure to love, as well as how to get the absolute most out of your new hobby.

What Types of Bracelets Can You Make with Beads?

Don’t assume that if you’ve seen one beaded bracelet, you’ve seen them all. There are lots of different kinds to consider, each with its own unique vibe and style. The following are just a few popular options to consider.

Stretch bracelets

If you’re a beginner looking for an approachable way to get started with beaded bracelets, stretch bracelets are a great option. There’s no need to worry about clasps or wiring, as you simply stack the beads onto a stretch cord that expands to fit your wrist.

Friendship bracelets

Although there are many different ways to approach friendship bracelets, most combine simple knots with beautiful beads to create beautifully unique patterns. Friendship bracelets are perfect for gifting or trading with friends, family members, children, etc.

Wire-wrapped bracelets

If you’re looking to achieve a more elegant, refined look to your bracelets, wire-wrapped options are a great choice. Wire wrapping involves using thin jewelry wire to create patterns that include gemstones, crystals, beads, focal items, and more.

Beaded cuff bracelets

Cuff-style bracelets allow for lots of elaborate beadwork, creative patterns, and different gemstones. A sturdy base makes all this possible, making it a favorite approach for jewelry makers who love to let their uniquely creative spirits run wild.

Charm bracelets

One way to add a quirky, fun touch of personality to a beaded bracelet is to turn it into a charm bracelet. The charms dangle freely from the bracelet and come in many different styles, making them a wonderful way to customize your work.

What Materials Do You Need to Start Making Beaded Bracelets?

Before you get to work on your first bracelet, you’ll want to gather all the materials you’ll need so everything’s on hand. Here’s a simple list of basics to get you started:

• Beads: Naturally, the beads you choose will give your bracelet its spirit and style, so choose carefully. You can go with anything you like from inexpensive acrylic or glass options to beautiful gemstones and crystals.
• Wire, cord, or string: You’ll need one or all of these, depending on what type of bracelets you’re making. Stretchy cord is better for easy wearability, while wire and other options are better for intricate, elegant designs.
• Fasteners: Unless you’re sticking to stretch bracelets, you’ll need a way to fasten your bracelets once they’re complete. Check out classic options like claw clasps or toggle alternatives, along with jump rings and (if you’re making wire bracelets) crimp beads.
• Jewelry tools: Essential beading tools and equipment, including wire cutters and jewelry pliers.

How to Make a Bracelet with Beads

Once you’ve chosen your beads and preferred options for threading and securing your creations, it’s time to get down to business. Here’s a simple step-by-step rundown to refer to as you dive into your new hobby.

Get organized

Although you can adopt a more organic approach to jewelry making if you wish, most jewelry makers prefer to plan ahead. Invest in a bead board or a dedicated bead tray for organizing and keeping track of your beads. Plan your design, as well, so you can create with purpose and direction.

Take some measurements

Always measure your wrist (or the wrist of the person who’ll be wearing your creation) before creating to ensure a comfortable fit. Add an extra inch or so to ensure the bracelet will fit comfortably, and cut your wire or cord accordingly.

Prepare to start stringing

If you’re making a wire bracelet, the first thing you’ll want to do is attach your clasp using a crimp bead. Run the wire through the crimp bead, add the clasp you’ve chosen, thread the wire back through the bead, and use your pliers to secure your work by flattening the bead.

If you’re using string or stretch cord, you can start your bracelet by simply folding a piece of tape over one end to keep the beads from slipping off during the creation process.

String your beads

Now comes the fun part. Start adding your beads to your wire, string, or cord in any pattern or configuration you like. Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can experiment with patterns, alternating bead sizes, spacer beads, or freeform configurations. Make your bracelet your own.

Check your work

As you get closer to finishing the stringing process, check your bracelet every once in a while against your wrist to ensure it will sit correctly and that the beads will fill the cord without becoming overcrowded. If you need to, add or remove some beads until things are just right.

Consider any additions

If you want your bracelet to include any charms or other accessories in addition to just the beads, now is the time to add them. Simply slide them onto your cord or wire and position them as needed or desired between the beads to add some visual interest and personality to your bracelet.

Finish your bracelet

Finish your bracelet by securing your string or cord. If you’re using wire, you’ll need to attach the connection point for your clasp the same way you attached the clasp at the beginning of this process.

If you’re using stretch cord or string, simply tie a nice, secure square knot to complete the process. Be sure to neatly trim any excess string or wire that may be present.

Test your bracelet

Before wearing or gifting your bracelet, give it a quick test first to make sure it fits well and that the clasp works properly (if you did use a clasp). Clasps should be easy to open, close securely, and keep your beads in place.

You’ll also want to look your bracelet over and make sure it looks as lovely and polished as you imagined. Are the beads well-secured? Is the spacing nice and even? Beaded bracelets look best when they’re flawless, so definitely take the time to correct any imperfections you find.

At The Bead Traders, you’ll find a beautiful, well-rounded collection of quality beads, including gemstone and metal options, as well as focal beads. We’re always adding to our catalog, as well, so there’s always something new to discover and add to your repertoire. Browse our selection today, and prepare to be amazed!