Onyx Necklace

About This Design

Time:  Approximately 20 minutes

Level of Difficulty:  All Levels (with Basic Wire Wrapping Knowledge)

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

Sometimes all you need is a single strand of great beads and a fancy clasp to make a simple, elegant, yet stunning necklace design.  This is quick to make and very pretty.  Vary this design with any nice beads in any color, and with any fancy clasp which can be worn in the back, on the side, or in the front!

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

Step 1

Gather Supplies

• 1 strand of Onyx beads (I used faceted round in about 12mm, about a 16 inch strand)
• 1 length of flexible beading wire, enough for your necklace plus several extra inches to work with
• 2 sterling silver crimp beads
• Optional - 2 crimp bead covers
• 1 fancy clasp of choice.  I used a fancy leaf sterling silver toggle clasp.

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

Step 2

String the beads

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.  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 onyx bead pendant is ready to wear!

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