Moonlight Necklace

About This Design

Time:  Approximately 1 hour

Level of Difficulty:  All Levels 

Cost: Varies, depending on materials selected.  Approximately $20-30 as shown.

This triple strand design features a single coin pearl, inspired by the autumn moon rising in the blue sky.  I used midnight blue goldstone beads, iolite, and gray pearls in my design, but any color of beads will work.

Want to make this necklace, or a variation of it for yourself?  Let's get started!

Step 1

Gather Supplies

• 3 strands of blue beads.  I used iolite, gray pearls, and blue goldstone beads in my design
• 1 silver coin pearl (the moon) 
• 3 lengths of flexible beading wire, enough for your necklace plus several extra inches to work with
• 6 sterling silver crimp beads
• 1 fancy clasp of choice.  I used a sterling silver toggle clasp.

Need Supplies?  Check my Jewelry Supply pages to find what you need! 

Step 2

String the beads

This is a three-strand design. To make my design asymmetrical, on one strand, about two-thirds of the way up one side I strung the pearl bead as the "moon" rising in the sky of this design. You can place the pearl anyplace you want in your design, in the center of the necklace if you want. 

Treat each strand as a separate necklace.  I made mine so each strand was a slightly different length so they all hang in a row together.

Tie a knot on one end of the wire, or place some tape over the end, and string all of your beads onto the wire.    Check the length and overall design and make adjustments by adding, removing, or re-positioning beads until you are happy with the look of the necklace.  

You can do this first on a bead design board if you prefer.   Make sure you account for the added length of the clasp.  

TIP - You can start a necklace by attaching the clasp to one end first,  However, if you are unclear about your final design or the finished length, it is best to simply tie a knot or place some tape over the end of the jewelry wire, string your beads, and once you are happy with the design and length, attach the clasps to the ends.  This way, if you find you need to subtract or add beads you can just remove the tape or knot and work from either end without having to cut off your clasp and start the whole thing over!

Step 3 

Crimp ends and attach the clasp

Slide a crimp bead onto the wire, feed the wire through the clasp loop, then back through the crimp bead.  Pull the wire snug, and crimp the bead closed.   Follow the How to Use Crimp Beads instructions if you are not familiar with this technique. 

Repeat on other side, making sure you pull the wire tight to beads before crimping.   Do this for each strand of the necklace.

 TIP -  Because this is a toggle clasp, you will want to leave a little "play" in the wire so the clasp is easy to put on, so leave a little room where the loop of wire attaches to the clasp.  Cut off remaining tails of wire with flush cutters.

TIP - As an option, try the new crimp bead covers to hide crimps for an even more finished look.

 
That's it, your new moonlight pendant is ready to wear!

Wear the fancy clasp on the front or side for more interest!