Create Jewelry: Crystals

by Marlene Blessing

With projects ranging in difficulty from easy stringing pieces to more challenging seed bead weaving designs, this guidebook provides 20 stunning crystal designs with expert instructions. Explaining details on the basics of crystal crafting while revealing entertaining tidbits about this specialty bead, crystal jewelry projects are presented for any type of fashion, from classic looks and special occasion pieces to trendy, fashion forward designs. With a variety of glamorous projects--including a rich paisley brooch, a violet and topaz tapestry bracelet, or a midnight blue multistrand necklace for day or evening--crystal lovers will delight in this crafter's companion.

Genres: Jewellery Making, Jewellery

128 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2007

Reviews

[Amy Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had some beautiful, unique designs, unlike what I've seen in many other books. It is definitely for a more advanced beader/jewelry-maker. While there is a brief description of methods and procedures, I would not recommend this to a beginner. With that being said, I think it's a great book to look to for inspiration. Some of the designs incorporate some beautiful bead weaving techniques. I also love that the projects are interspersed with history, tidbits, and factoids about gems and jewelry. There are also nice charts with information about crystal shapes, colors, and effects that are very useful in picking out crystals and designing pieces. The designs in the book are all elegant and wearable, and they are sure to inspire you to create something on your own!

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book. The designs can be very intricate and the instructions are precise and informative. I especially enjoyed the blurbs about crystal, how it's formed, where it's found and the making of crystal beads.
However, this book is founded on Swarovski crystals and all of the designs include the shopping list for said crystals. As we all know, Swarovski is not an inexpensive brand and the designs are definitely for an expert beader with money to spend on handmade jewelry. The majority of the designs are for evening/party wear.
All of the designs incorporate at least 10 different kinds of beads and I only found one design that I would be willing to spend the time to make. Again, gorgeous photos, great designs, step-by-step instructions and lots of fun information. Just not really for me.

[Sarah Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many fantastic designs and I liked how it included various historical and scientific tidbits about crystals.

[C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book, but maybe not for beginners? I haven't made any of the designs yet, mainly because I don't have enough of the crystals used, but the designs look nice. I would like to make the lariat and the Royal Tapestry bracelet. I really enjoyed the info and history tidbits throughout the book.