Handmade Jewelry Articles

09.08.2007 1000 Jewelry Details
02.09.2007 Necklace Styles – Simple Chain Link Necklace
02.05.2007 Necklace Styles – Affordable Yet Elegant
01.24.2007 Necklace Styles – Chain Link with Drop
01.23.2007 Necklace Styles – Triple Strand Necklace
12.15.2006 Jewelry Sizes, Lengths and Fancy Names
12.06.2003 Lucky December Birthstones
11.09.2006 Carats Vs Karats: What is the difference?
11.01.2006 What is a Pearl?
10.25.2006 Why buy from an Online Jewelry Designer?
10.17.2006 Sterling Silver
10.12.2006 Swarovski Crystals
10.11.2006 Handmade Glass Beads

Kincaidesigns Blogs: Read more articles like the ones below. Also find articles featuring individual jewelry designs and jewelry sets from Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry.

Unique Handmade Jewelry Unique Handmade Jewelry provides articles about unique handmade jewelry and materials. Have you every wondered how glass beads are made, or what a Swarovski Crystal is? You can read about it all here and much more.

Handmade Bridal Jewelry Featuring the Unique Handmade Bridal Jewelry from www.kincaidesigns.com. You'll find information about bridal necklaces, bracelets, earrings, bridesmaids gifts and more!

Handmade Jewelry Shopping Featuring the Unique Handmade Jewelry from www.kincaidesigns.com. You'll find features on handmade necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, baby bracelets, bridal jewelry, seasonal jewelry and much more.

This handmade necklace design is without any bells and whistles (figuratively and literally). While these handmade necklace designs may vary in lengths and have up to two strands, there are no drops or pendants present. The simple handmade necklace designs work well with almost any neckline and may be worn to compliment other "chain link with drop (aka Y-Necklace)" or "chain link with pendant" necklaces, which will be described in the next article. Of course, they can also be worn alone, and they look magnificent.

All of the necklace designs use either sterling silver or 14kt gold fill wire and some also use matching chain in between the handmade glass beads, Swarovski crystals, pearls and semiprecious stones. All handmade necklaces are secured with a clasp. Depending on the intended length, some necklace may have an extension. These extensions are usually added to shorter necklaces, as it can be difficult to predict the neck size that necklace design will end up with. All extension are embellished with matching beads, bring the whole necklace design together as one.

At this time all of the double strand chain link necklaces are designed to be worn as two strands. What do I mean? New designs are coming to Kincaidesigns in "great lengths", which can be worn as the trendy long double strand necklace or a shorter triple strand necklace. The design is basically one long necklace, also known as the Opera Necklace (26-34 inches in length) or the Rope Necklace (longer than the Opera Necklace). This style may end up having a category of its own, however, at this time they will be with the chain link necklaces. Not only can they be worn as 2, 3 or even 4 strand necklaces, they can also be wrapped around your wrist as a multiple strand bracelet. Now THAT is versatility.

No matter which way you wear it, the chain link necklace is a must have in your jewelry box. Compliment other necklaces, wear it alone, wrap it around your wrist, or make up a fashion statement of your own.

To find your chain link necklace, visit the handmade jewelry boutique. You'll find a variety of chain link necklaces along with more great handmade necklace styles. Keep checking back so see what's new at the online jewelry boutique, or sign up for the monthly newsletter to stay better informed of new designs and special offers.

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We've discussed the Triple Strand Necklace and the Chain Link Necklace with a Drop. They have their names for the obvious reason, and the following necklaces also fell into their names. The necklace in todays post are great buys for gifts as well as yourself. Why? Well, they are on the cheaper end of the Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry Designs. They are affordable without compromising their materials.

Cluster Pendant Necklace

For a versatile and even more simple necklace choice, the cluster necklace is perfect. The cluster necklaces got there name from their obvious cluster of beads. These unique cluster pendants can be interchanged, if you want to buy three cluster pendants and only one chain, you have basically chosen 3 necklaces in 1. You can also wear other pendants from the Pendant Boutique at Kincaidesigns, simple string the pendant onto your chain and viola, you have yet another necklace. These necklace are the most simple and affordable jewelry for gifts in the Kincaidesigns Necklace Boutique.

Floating Necklace

The floating necklace got it's name because the beads (almost) look as if they are floating around the neckline. Unlike other necklace designs which have this same effect, we use a beadalon stringing material which isn't clear, or completely transparent. However, because of the necklace design, the beadalon gives a unique quality in design to the necklaces, weaving in and out of the glass beads. While the stringing material isn't completely transparent, it is much less noticeable than chain or a thick cord or leather, therefore the name "floating necklace" stuck. These are also very popular and affordable as gifts. We are aware that gift giving can be expensive, especially when giving multiple gifts at a time. These are great for bridesmaid gifts and they can be custom made to match your wedding colors.

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Chain Link with Drop

For more simple and delicate handmade jewelry, the chain link with drop necklaces are the perfect choice. This necklace is otherwise known as the Y-necklace due to the shape, however, many people aren't aware of this necklace type. These necklaces are constructed using sterling silver or 14kt gold fill chain and embellished with Swarovski Crystals, handmade glass beads, pearls and semiprecious stones. The drop itself acts as a unique pendant. Each drop is different based on the necklace, some have clustered dangles, others have 2-3 drops, while the most standard chain link with drop necklace in the Kincaidesigns collection has one drop with a matching bead combination finishing off the piece as seen in the photograph. These necklaces can be paired with matching chain link necklaces to create a double or triple strand necklace, which is a stunning evening look or even a trendy everyday look. Wearing multiple strand necklaces is a huge trend right now, one of many trends that the jewelry designers are hoping will stay around for awhile.

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There are many different styles of necklaces, and while there are universal names for these styles, many jewelry designers make up their own names for the handmade necklace styles in their boutique. At Kincaidesigns, we use some universal names and other names we just made up, or we think we made up. I don't mean we've named handmade necklaces like "Julie" or "Maria", I mean we made up names that described each style of necklace, such as "Chain Link Necklace with Drop" otherwise known as a Y-necklace. This may sound boring, or clinical, but we wanted to be as descriptive as possible for our customers. Not everyone knows what a Y-Necklace is, or a Lariat or Opera necklace. So we made up our own names.

This article series will help you understand the names of each necklace style at Kincaidesigns. When you shop for necklaces, they are divided into categories. This information will guide your through the necklace boutique at Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry.

Triple Strand Handmade Necklace

When you arrive in the Handmade Necklace Boutique at Kincaidesigns, your see the Triple Strand Necklaces right away. These are, well, necklaces with three strands. Self explanatory. Most of the three strand necklaces are "strung" (opposed to chain link) and are adorned with handmade glass beads, Swarovski Crystals, pearls, semiprecious stones, and more unique beads. They are a signature style which will give you an idea of the unique bead and jewelry designs you'll find at Kincaidesigns. Another type of triple strand necklace can also be categorized as a "chain link" necklace. These necklaces are constructed of sterling silver wire and chain instead of the beads being strung on a stringing material. All of the three strand necklaces are considered the most dramatic in the Kincaidesigns handmade jewelry collection and are guaranteed to have people asking where you found such a stunning piece of jewelry.

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It can sometimes be difficult to buy jewelry online because we are never sure exactly how the jewelry will fit us. The jewelry descriptions might have lengths listed, or a fancy name noted, which is supposed to let us know how long the necklace is. However, most of us are unable to imagine how the jewelry will display on our necks or wrists.

This article is written to serve as a guide to buying jewelry online when you only have an image or description to evaluate. If you are a frequent handmade jewelry client for online jewelry businesses, I would recommend cutting some string or having a measuring tape (for sewing use) on hand. These are simple ways to measure around your neck or wrist to see where the jewelry will fall. If you are still unsure if the jewelry will fit you, take some measurement from your neck and wrists and let your online jewelry designer know what length you would like the necklace to be. Don't do a complete redesign, but if the necklace is 17.5 inches and you want is to fall at 18 inches, you could ask about adding a couple of links to the necklace. While this may be a complimentary service from some jewelry designers, some may charge a small fee, but it's worth the extra money for your handmade jewelry purchase to fit you perfectly.

Necklaces

We'll start with necklace lengths. Standard Necklace lengths are 16", 18", 20", 22" and 24". There are more sizes, both smaller and larger, but those are standards. You can usually buy chains in these standard length. If you go smaller you are entering collar or choker territory. The collar necklace, which is 12-13 inches, fits snugly around the middle of the neck. These necklaces are often made of fabric, or woven beads, so the necklace will lay flat against the neck rather than irritating the neck with large beads, especially mis-shapen beads. The choker, which is 14-16 inches, falls perfectly around the base of the neck. This length is very popular and classic, and it works with most necklines.

Next we have the Princess necklace, which is 17-19 inches. The princess necklace falls just below the throat and is usually worn with lower necklines. You'll find that necklaces with large pendants or y-necklaces tend to be 17-19 inches in length before the pendant or the drop. The princess necklace length makes for a more natural drop from the weight of the pendant or for the V of the Y-necklace.

The Matinee necklace is 20-24 inches, which falls a few inches below the collarbone, or at (or above) the neckline. Many women wear this style necklace over a blouse or high collar top. You'll see the Matinee necklace in the workplace or on older women who don't like to wear necklaces too tight or close to their neckline. If you are wearing a necklace with a whimsical pendant or of a locket of some kind, and you frequently enjoy looking at it while you wear it, the Matinee necklace is perfect due to the longer length. The same goes for our next necklace, the Opera necklace.

The Opera necklace ranges from 26-34 inches in length. The trend right now is to wear multiple opera length necklaces at their longest length. These necklace are extremely versatile, and depending on the length, the opera necklace can be doubled up to make a double strand necklace. This style of necklace can easily be transformed from day to evening wear.

The longest necklace style is the Rope necklace, which can be over 45 inches in length. This is perhaps the most versatile necklace style there is, as it can be worn day or night and transformed into a multi-strand necklace or even bracelet. Some people even refer the rope necklace as a necklace scarf or beaded scarf. They can be worn in any number of ways, be as creative as your fashion sense will take you. You can even wear these around your waist as a decorative belt.

Bracelets

There aren't any fancy names for bracelets, but there is a size chart. To ensure that your bracelet will fit you when it arrives, make a note of your wrist size in the comments box on checkout, I would imagine that most jewelry artists will verify that the bracelet will fit you before shipping your order. Don't forget to add 1-1.25 inches to your bracelet measurement, you don't want to bracelet too tight. If the bracelet is a gift and you don't know their wrist size, refer to the chart below and estimate. The average person is 7.25-7.5 inches.

Bracelet Size Chart:
Extra Small: 6-6.5 inches
Small: 6.5-7 inches
Medium: 7-7.5 inches (Standard)
Large: 7.5-8 inches
Extra Large: 8-8.5 inches and up.

If you are still clueless, buy a small or medium bracelet with an extension. A bracelet extension not only adds versatility to the length, but it's also a nice decorative touch. At Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry, many of the bracelets have extensions which adds anywhere from 1" to 2.5 inches to the length of the bracelet. This guarantees your bracelet will fit.

Refer to this article when you are buying from an online jewelry designer. And remember that when you buy from a handmade jewelry designer, you have more control over the specifics of your jewelry. If you would like links added or removed, just ask your online jewelry designer and they will let you know what can be done. When you shop at Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry, we want to make sure that your jewelry fits the way you want it to. Please add notes to the comments box when you checkout with your wrist size and necklace preferences. We will make sure your jewelry fits you before your order is shipped.

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Why are there so many December birthstones? They must have gotten to the 12th month of the year and had so many gemstones left over that they gave them all to December. Who knows why or when they were distributed to December, but whoever was born during this festive month has plenty of gemstones to choose from. First we'll start with the traditional birthstones, Lapis Lazuli and Zircon.

Lapis Lazuli

A semiprecious gemstone. Lapiz Lazuli is a deep blue gemstone mineral which is often speckled with sparkling pyrite inclusions. Lapis Lazuli has been used for jewelry for thousands of years with many ancient cultures treasuring it. The main component in Lapis Lazuli is Lazurite and accounts for the intense blue color. The best quality lapis lazuli is an intense dark blue with minor deposits of white calcite and brassy yellow pyrite. It is extremely rare and commonly found in forms of crystalline limestone. Ancient references to "sapphire," the "sapphirus" of the Romans, usually refers to lapis lazuli. Its modern name originates in the Persian word "lazhuward," meaning "blue," and the Arabis word "lazaward," meaining "heavan" or "sky." Currently, much of the Lapis Lazuli on the market is mined in Afghanistan.

Zircon

A semiprecious gemstone. Zircon is one of the few stones to resemble the diamond in fire and brilliancy is zircon. It's colorless stones have been intentionally and mistakenly substituted for the diamond. The natural color of zircon varies between colorless, yellow-golden, red, brown, and green. Unlike the Diamond, Zircon exhibits double refraction and bottom facets seen through the top of a cut stone will appear double, diamond doesn't share this property. Zircon is also significantly softer than diamond and cut stones will show wear on the edges of the facets. The name Zircon is from the Arabic "zargun," derived in turn from Persian zar, meaning "gold," and the Arabic "gun," meaning "color."

Now that you know and understand the traditional birthstones, you can begin to explore the modern birthstones of Tuquoise, Topaz and Tanzanite. What a set of three beautiful gemstones.

Turquoise

A semiprecious gemstone. Turquoise is an azure or greenish soft mineral that derives it's color from copper. Turquoise is very soft and porous, and it's high water content makes it vulnerable to destruction by drying, and absorbing impurities. Turquoise is often stabilized with a resin to preserve it's color, protect it from environmental pollutants and drying. Turquoise was one of the first gemstones to be mined and some turquoise beads found in Mesopotamia, (present day Iraq), date back to around 5000 BC. It varies in color from sky-blue to green, depending on the amount of iron and copper it contains. Turquoise from several sources was first transported through Turkey, probably accounting for its name, which is French for "Turkish." Turquoise is mined in Iran, Tibet, northern Africa, Australia, Siberia, England, Belgium, France, Poland, Ethiopia, Mexico, Chile, and China.

Topaz

A semiprecious gemstone. Topaz is a very hard and lovely mineral that has been known and valued both in ancient and modern times. Topaz is found in a wide range of colors, the sherry-yellow being particularly valuable and the pink topaz (natural pink topaz) being the most valuable and rare. The yellow topaz becomes pink on exposure to a moderate heat, and most pink topaz today is heat treated yellow topaz. Other colors of topaz include blue, which is sometime indistinguishable from aquamarine, brown topaz, and white (which has been mistaken for diamond.) Ancient legends associated topaz with several different 'sungods', dispelling of enchantments, and improving eyesight, as well as crediting it with the ability to change colors in the presence of poisons. Topaz is one of the sources of the island Zebirget in the Red Sea. This island has had a few previous names, one of which was Topazios. The word Topaz is also thought to derive from "tapaz", the Sanskrit name for "fire." Many authorities believe that the stone called topaz today was unknown to the ancients and that the name topazos referred to olivine (peridot), which is known to be found on the island of Topazios (Zebirget) as well.

Tanzanite

A semiprecious gemstone. Tanzanite is a gem variety of the mineral Zoisite and it comes from a small area in Tanzania. Nearly all tanzanite on the market has been heat treated to generate it's lovely blue violet color. When first mined, tanzanite is usually a muted green color. Tanzanite is similar in final color to iolite, though iolite is usually of weaker intensity and has less fire. The sapphire-blue variety of Zoisite, Tanzanite is the most valuable of it's kind. Other colors zoisite comes in are yellowish-green, green, white, green-brown or gray. Tanzanite is found in the veins of quartz and pegmatites. They are commonly mistaken for sapphires and they are often color treated to remove any browns to enhance its color. They may appear more violet in incandescent lights.

You thought we were done, didn't you. Well there is yet, another birthstones that comes from the Mystical December birthstones. Onyx is our final December birthstone.

Onyx

A semiprecious gemstone. Onyx is a variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz with a hardness rating of 7. Very similar to agate, and treated agate is often sold as black onyx. Onyx may be brown, white, grey, or black.
Onyx is the striped, semiprecious variety of agate with white and black alternating bands. It's a rare stone that can be artificially reproduced by dying pale, layered agate. The name come from the Greek "onux", meaning "nail" or "claw", referring to the mineral's color. The name onyx is properly applied to the agate variety only. Other varieties include carnelian onyx (with white and red bands), and sardonyx (with white and brown bands.) Natural onyx comes from India and South America and is commonly used for cutting cameos and intaglios because its layers show a color contrast.

There you have it, the long list and decriptions of the December birthstones. You can find out more about other birthstones on the birthstones and gemstones page. We have an extensive birthstones chart and much more information on gemstones and other jewelry components.

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