Trying to figure out what types of wire to use can be a most difficult process when beginning to make jewelry.  One of our previous articles addressed how to choose a wire temper.  This article will discuss how to choose the wire gauge for an upcoming jewelry project.   Remember, the larger the number of the gauge, the thinner the wire.

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28-34 gauge

The wires’ diameter measures from 0.013-.006 inches or 0.32-.16 millimeters. This is EXTREMELY fine wire. Wires with these gauges tend to kink and bend a lot —nylon jaw pliers will need to be used.  Is great for wire wrapping using small beads, wire weaving, and wire crocheting.

26 gauge

The diameter of this wire measures at .016 inches or .41 millimeters. Again, this is very thin wire and nylon jaw pliers and fine-tipped tools should be used.  Is good for wire wrapping beads and seed bead jewelry.

24 gauge

The diameter measures 0.020 inches or 0.51 millimeters.  This is still considered fine wire and the nylon jaw pliers are recommended when it gets kinks.  Great when using pearls and small crystals.

22 gauge

The diameter measures 0.025? inches or 0.64 millimeters. This gauge is ideal to use when 20-gauge is just a bit too thick.  This is a wonderful multipurpose wire and is excellent for wire wrapping beads and semi-precious stones.

20 gauge

20 gauge wire measures 0.032? or .81 millimeters in diameter. This is considered a medium wire in jewelry making and, just as the 22 gauge, it is a fantastic multipurpose wire.  Works well for making earwires, clasps, and headpins as well as wrapping glass and coiled beads.  It also recommended when making bracelets.

18 gauge

Measures 0.040 inches or 1.02 millimeters in diameter.  Is considered medium thick wire in jewelry making.  Works well for making clasps, wire wrapping beads with large holes, bracelet making and earrings.

16 gauge

Measures 0.051 inches or 1.29 millimeters in diameter.  This is a thick wire. It is recommended that heavy duty tools are used when manipulating this wire.  It is not recommended for the beginner.  Can be used for, neckwires, rings, and bracelet bases.

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Staying power is important when it comes to jewelry. You never want to feel like you’re spending your money on trends that will be in one day and out the next. Instead, it’s much more fulfilling (and guilt free) to invest in pieces that will last you for many years to come. It’s even better if you can get these pieces for a steal! We scoured the pages of top style magazines and studied celeb styles over the decades to come up with a few suggestions for modern jewelry basics that any woman should have.

Sterling silver jewelry – No matter what your style preferences may be, sterling silver jewelry is all-around must have for any wardrobe. From great charm bracelets to personalized pieces and long pendants in fun designs to thin wire bangles, sterling silver jewelry is easy to wear and looks great! Best of all, sterling silver jewelry doesn’t cost a fortune and you’ll be able to wear it season after season. The key to keeping these pieces looking new is to store them in a lined jewelry box and polish them every few months.

CZ jewelry – Every woman needs dressy jewelry pieces stashed away for special occasions, but looking great doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Instead, choose a few pieces of CZ jewelry in a timeless style. For example, some great sparkly cubic zirconia rings or a pair of fabulous earrings will work time and time again. CZ jewelry looks so similar to the real thing, it’s often hard to tell the difference, so save yourself money and go for the CZ jewelry instead.

Jewelry sets – This is a great for looking coordinated and pulled together. Jewelry sets work well for the office or for everyday wear, but the best thing about jewelry sets is that you get the most bang for your buck. Plus, you can create many different looks by mixing and matching jewelry sets with pieces that you already own.

Fine me more at my blog Jewelry Style, and if you are a big fan of cz rings and clip on earrings you could land on the blog to find what you want.

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