Beading doesn’t get more elegant than this, with such gleaming gems as amethyst, quartz, and lapis lazuli. Val�rie MacCarthy--whose work graces the pages of high fashion magazines around the world--has created a magnificent collection of sophisticated, unique jewelry. The 30 projects include bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings, and they tend to the playful and colorful. In addition, an entire section is dedicated to the different stones and their properties, including their spiritual and healing aspects. But what will really entice intermediate jewelers, beaders, and other general crafters are the pieces themselves: a balloon ring, festooned with seed pearls; chandelier earrings with sparkling, dangling stones; and a fireworks necklace of citrine, peridot, and apatite. Introductory chapters present all the gems, tools, and techniques used in the pieces. A Selection of the Crafter's Choice Book Club.

Beginner projects: fairy garden, never too many, waterfall, vintage, bold and beautiful, Paris, southwest, trinkets, faces, rocker chic, outrageous, flower power, pennies from heaven, Intermediate projects: mementos, eclectic, springtime, fiesta, grammy's baubles, olde world, divine, sunset, whirlpool, talisman, droplets, waves, flight of fancy, heart to heart, yee haw, forever yours, true love, city nights, woodland, northern lights, talking leaves, orient express.

Delicate, luminous, beautiful: no wonder metal filigree components are a jeweler’s treasure. From antique brass and copper to shimmering silver and gold, they pair perfectly with a variety of beads. This latest entry in the bestselling Beading with series features 33 sophisticated and utterly stylish projects. The techniques are simple; the variety is stunning; and the designs are contemporary and accessible. Learn how to shape filigree components and alter their finish. Discover special techniques for combining the beads with the filigree. Release your creativity on projects packed with high-end style. The Dinner at Eight Necklace weds diamond-shaped filigree connectors with sparkly crystal beads. Whimsical Whirlwind Earrings feature painted filigree and silk ribbon that provide a surprising pop of color. Every piece is gorgeous!

With this gloriously photographed and illustrated manual at hand, beaders can create awe-inspiring jewelry. It's the only current, comprehensive guide to working with cabochons--a flat piece of rock or mineral--and it covers all the basics, along with a range of new creative techniques and hot trends. Find out which tools and materials to use, which beads work best, and how to wrap them round the stones. Craft turned, pointed, twisted, brick stitch, ruffled, or scalloped edges, or add decorative fringe. For something dramatic, combine more than one cabochon in a single piece. Or, instead of natural stone, use dichroic glass or other found objects. Make a glittering brooch, funky bracelets, a wearable art necklace, and other showstoppers.

Explains the techniques involved in making bead and wire jewelry, discusses tools and materials, and features illustrated instructions for seventy-five projects, including necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and pins.