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.

When it comes to jewelry items that are positively synonymous with concepts like timelessness, elegance, and sophistication, it doesn’t get much more iconic than a pearl necklace. Pearls look incredible on absolutely anyone. They’re also durable gemstones, so many people take pride in passing pearl jewelry down from generation to generation.

But you don’t necessarily need to go to a jewelry store and buy a readymade pearl necklace to experience the magic of wearing pearls for yourself, especially if you have a preference for freshwater pearls. It’s easier than you think to make a freshwater pearls necklace of your own. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Why Choose Freshwater Pearls?

Both saltwater and freshwater pearls are stunningly beautiful. Both are obtainable through gemstone bead dealers and make excellent fits for handmade jewelry items like necklaces or bracelets. But freshwater pearls bring some unique benefits to the table for gemstone lovers and jewelry makers alike.

Versatility

Freshwater pearls come in a wide range of different colors and shapes, so the possibilities are endless as far as the types of necklaces you can create. You can stick to special occasion necklaces if you like, but freshwater pearls also open the door to some truly unique alternatives that are ideal for everyday wear, dressing up weekend outfits, or wearing to the office.

Affordability

In comparison to saltwater pearls, freshwater pearls are usually more affordable, so they’re a terrific way to integrate pearls into your jewelry collection on a budget. Creating your own freshwater pearls necklace makes the process of attaining the option of your dreams even more cost-effective.

Meaning

Many people feel freshwater pearls hold a special spiritual significance. Some healers believe they have unique healing properties and use them to help balance body rhythms or sort out hormone issues. Others feel freshwater pearls have the power to attract love, tap into one’s inner consciousness, or cultivate spiritual purity in the wearer.

How to Make a Freshwater Pearls Necklace You’ll Love

Making your own jewelry is easier than you might think. (All you need are a few basic supplies and a little creativity.) It’s also highly rewarding on multiple levels. For example, jewelry-making helps improve your motor skills and encourage mental relaxation.

The ability to make whatever you like for yourself and your loved ones can be empowering, as well. Here are some key steps to keep in mind when planning and making your very own freshwater pearls necklace.

Choose your pearls

Naturally, you want to put the most thought into the star of your necklace – the pearls themselves – so think carefully about what to choose. Freshwater pearls come in many different shapes and just about any color you can imagine. Consider which of your available choices lends itself best to your personality, the style of jewelry you prefer, and your plans as far as how you’ll wear it.

You’ll also want to choose a good gemstone bead dealer when deciding where to source your pearls. Choose an outlet like The Bead Traders with an extensive catalog and a reputation for excellent customer care.

Choose a suitable line for your pearls

After the pearls themselves, your choice of lines is the most important consideration when making a freshwater pearls necklace. Silk line is generally the traditional choice, and it comes in various lengths to suit different pearls. (Nylon is a solid alternative if you don’t want to use silk.)

Generally speaking, the larger the pearls, the thicker the line you’ll want to use. Small pearls are good fits for a thinner line with a thickness of 2 or so, while average-sized pearls fit well on a 4 line. If you’re using larger pearls, though, you’ll want a line that’s at least a 6.

Measure and cut your line

Careful measurements are the key to necklaces that are comfortable, stylish, and make the statement you’re looking for. So, start by carefully measuring your neck (or the neck of your recipient). Consider whether you want a choker, collar, princess necklace, or opera-length necklace. Then measure and cut your line accordingly.

Keep in mind that silk stretches, so pull it gently taut to pre-stretch it a bit when measuring. It’s also advisable to leave some extra length to grant yourself wiggle room for working. (You can always trim it later.) Preserve the integrity of your line by rubbing a small amount of beeswax along its length.

String your pearls

Use a thin wire threading needle that fits through your pearls to start creating your freshwater pearls necklace. Begin by tying a square knot on one end, followed by a clamshell tip to secure your pearls as you add them, and then another knot to separate the clamshell from the pearls.

Then thread the pearls onto your line one after the other. Be sure to tie additional knots after each one to help separate the pearls. (Also keep in mind that if you’re creating a necklace with a pattern, the pearls need to go onto the thread in reverse order.) Finish with another clamshell tip.

Complete the necklace

Once you’re done, complete your necklace by adding a jump ring and clasp to make it wearable. Use pliers to bend your clamshell tips into an open position. Then attach the clasp to one and the jump ring to the other. Consider adding a small dab of jewelry glue to the spots where the clamshells bend to reinforce them.

For best results, be sure to continuously check the length of your necklace throughout the creation process to make sure you’re on track. Pay special attention to whether the pearls are laying the way you want them to on your neck. Make necessary adjustments accordingly.

Now that you understand the basics of how to make a beautiful freshwater pearls necklace of your very own, it’s time to dive in and start creating. Start by browsing our extensive collection of high-quality freshwater pearls here at The Bead Traders! It’s a great way to get your creative juices flowing and see what’s truly possible when you have a wealth of options at your fingertips.

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.