Jewelry Great

Jewelry Great

For a while now, I have been creating handcrafted jewelry. I knew I had a passion for modeling ever since I was very little, but it has been hard for me to find valuable information on creating handcrafted jewelry. Of course, imagination is the most important, but the materials you use are just as important. Especially the modeling clay. I found some materials on FIMO, the poster clay for oven drying clay, and I heard a few things about DAS, the poster clay for air drying clay, but not a comparison between them. So I decided, after using both of them, to create such an article. One that can help you decide what to use - air hardening clay, or oven hardening clay.

The first modeling clay I bought was DAS. This was the first one I bought as I wanted modeling clay easy to use and I told myself air-drying clay was easier to use than oven drying clay. I think this is an advantage of DAS because some times you do not have the time or disposition to cook your handcrafted jewelry. I found DAS clay easy to heat in my palms until it became easy to shape, but it was not very soft and I could not create really small and complicated patterns with it. However I created a lot of beautiful pieces of jewelry with DAS clay and I really like that it is easy to use and to color with acrylic colors. I used to create round shapes, rhombs, fruit shapes etc for earrings and medallions and I found it great for these shapes. I also found DAS clay to be quite cheap.

Yesterday I decided I should try FIMO clay too, in order to really know what I am talking about when I talk about modeling clay. So I bought FIMO. Its price was 8 times more expensive than DAS clay - I do not know if this is valid everywhere, but I bought it from the same place I bought my DAS clay and I found it very expensive so I bought a really small pack. I took my FIMO clay home really eager to try it so I took a small part of it and started heating and softening it into my hands. I noticed it was harder to condition than DAS (my hands were even felling a bit sorrow) and it took a bit long to soften. But it became very soft (as soft as children's modeling clay) and I could shape it in a really small complicated design (I shaped it into little rose earrings). I also noticed it was so soft that it did not crack while I was modeling it, something that has happened with DAS clay (however cracks in DAS clay can be covered by applying a bit of water on your shape and soften it and it does not crack a lot if it is well conditioned/softened before it is used). I liked the fact that I could change its shape and add new parts (petals in the case of my earrings) after a bit of time after I started my roses because FIMO parts mix for ever only in the oven. However it became a bit sticky after modeling it for along time so I had to leave it harden a bit until I could use it again. And it became gray really fast although I did not see any dust around but I guess FIMO really gets dirty very easy (but you can color your FIMO if it's white so it's OK - unless you use colored clay which may remain a bit dirty after you bake it). I was a bit nervous when I put my newly created piece of jewelry to bake because I do not have an electrical oven, but a really old gas one. It was a really big luck for me that the vendor at the store where I bought my FIMO clay from asked me what kind of oven I had and told me I should only leave my shapes inside the oven for 2-5 minutes, not 30 like the pack said. But I still felt the need to check it every 30 seconds because the same vendor told me it will become gray or black (just like over left cookies) if I remains in the oven too much. After I took my little earrings out of the oven I colored them in acrylic colors (the same ones I use for DAS). My shapes very really beautiful and I really like that I can use FIMO to create complicated patterns.

As a bottom line I can say I like DAS and FIMO clay, and I think you should try both of them to decide which one is the best for you. I think for simple patterns it is better to use DAS clay since it is easier to use and it does not need baking. However, if you want to create complicated patterns, FIMO clay is the one for you, even if it is more expensive and it needs baking.

Remember I used DAS and FIMO but you can find more varieties of modeling clay, and usually they are just as good and as expensive.

I hope you enjoyed my article and found it interesting! I have more interesting articles on handcrafting jewelry and a lot of photos posted on my blog http://www.handcraftedjewelrymaking.com so I please visit it!

Have a great day!
Dana

Dana Fatol

Great Wire Jewelry (Paperback) $25.49 Drawing inspiration from historical treasures, Irene F. Petersen shows how to braid, twist, and knit silver, copper, and brass wire and jump rings into bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. There`s no expensive equipment to buy, no soldering, and the easy-to-follow diagrams will have even beginners turning out any of the 70 projects. Two of today`s hottest trends-Viking knitting and chain mail-are covered in depth, as are techniques like the Queen`s link, double spiral, the foxtail, Crown Sinnet braiding, and more.

1.10 Carat Yellow Sapphire & Diamond Ring $599 This is a great ring for you exotic jewelry lovers. It features a center oval cut yellow sapphire. This sapphire has a great color and is accented on either side by round cut diamonds with a weight of .10 carats. These diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade of H-I. This gorgeous ring is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 3.04 grams.

1.80 Carat Amber Diamond 14Kt White Gold Engagement Ring $3857 This is a fantastic diamond engagement ring that features a center emerald cut diamond with a weight of 1.0 carats. The design itself is great for those who do not like their jewelry snagging on clothing as all the diamonds are flush. This diamond has a clarity grade of Vs2 and a color grade of I. On the side, there are .80 carats of round cut diamonds that are channel set into the band. These diamonds have a clarity of Vs2-Si1 with a color range of H-I. This ring is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 5.20 grams.

1.81 Carat Sophie Diamond 14Kt White Gold Engagement Ring $3681 This wonderful diamond engagement ring is such a stunning piece. It will make any luck lady the envy of the neighborhood. This ring features a center pear shaped diamond with a weight of 1.01 carats. It has a clean clarity of Si1 and a color grade of I. This is a great ring for anyone who doesn't like their jewelry snagging on cloths. On the side, there are .80 carats of beautiful baguette cut diamonds. These baguettes range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color range of H-I. This gorgeous ring is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 5.77 grams.

.50 Carat Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $1480 This delicate looking diamond anniversary band with its versatile design would make a great companion to your jewelry collection. Four round brilliant cut diamonds starts of this gorgeous design. The rounds are accented by additional rounds on the side of the shank in a channel type setting. There are a total of .50 carats worth of sparkling diamonds making up this stunning piece. The diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. The beautiful setting is made of high polished 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 2.10 grams.

1/2 Carat Sapphire & White Gold Women's Band $911 If you need a little color in your life, do it with this ring. It's a great contemporary and sleek design and not as flashy as the diamonds. It's a great alternative piece for those of us looking for something different. This ring features a center princess cut genuine sapphire with a weight of 1/2 carats. This sapphire is a natural specimen with a clean clarity and a rich color. The ring is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 5.50 grams.

1/2 Carat Ethan Mans Wedding Band $542 If you need a little color in your life, do it with this ring. It's a great contemporary and sleek design and not as flashy as the diamonds. It's a great alternative piece for those of us looking for something different. This ring features a center princess cut genuine sapphire with a weight of 1/2 carats. This sapphire is a natural specimen with a clean clarity and a rich color. The ring measures 5mm wide and is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 6.02 grams.

.75 Carat Mans 14kt Yellow Gold Diamond Wedding Band $1123 This is a great ring that you will be proud to wear. It consists round cut diamonds in a channel setting with a total weight .75 carats. These glistening diamonds have a clarity of Vs2-Si1 with a color range of H-I. This fantastic piece made of 14K yellow gold with a total gold weight of 11.26 grams.

.80 Carat Round Diamond Channel 14Kt White Yellow Gold Anniversary Band $2267 This sleek and elegantly appointed diamond anniversary band has a gorgeous design that will be enjoyed for years to come. A sparkling row of round cut diamonds with a total weight of .80 carats is highlighted in this exciting design. These beautiful channel set diamonds have a clarity of Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. This versatile diamond band would look great coupled with an engagement ring or it would look great on its own. The clean lines of of the setting makes this piece very elegant. This ring is made of 14kt. white and yellow gold with a total gold weight of 4.50 grams.

.75 Carat Shasta Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $2326 A stunning diamond anniversary band designed to be classic in nature. Its sleek, well defined style is accentuated by five sparkling round cut diamonds. These fiery diamonds have a total weight of .75 carats. The exquisite prongs have a uniqe design that is astounding. The diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. This timeless style would make a great addition to be worn with another ring or would by great by itself. The beautiful, high polished setting is made of 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 4.63 grams.

1.20 Carat Emerald & .20 Carat Diamond Ring $1269 This ring is absolutely gorgeous in design and will make a great addition to any wardrobe. The ring features a beautiful lab created center marquise cut emerald with a weight of 1.0 carats. This emerald is clean and has a great color. On the side, there are additional emeralds, but these are princess cut and channel set into the band. The princess emeralds have a total weight of .20 carats. Complementing the ring, there are .40 carats of beautiful round cut diamonds. These are genuine diamonds that have a clarity of VS2-Si1 and a color range of H-I. This awesome ring is made of 14K yellow gold with a total gold weight of 5.50 grams.

Great Wire Jewelry : Projects and Techniques $7.43 No Synopsis Available

.29 Carat Wide Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $1164 This is a wonderful diamond eternity style band that will make a great gift for any occasion. It features a center ring brilliant cut diamond with .10 carats and accented by .19 carats of additional round cut diamonds. These spectacular diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color range of H-I. This ring is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 7.72 grams.

1.60 Carat Amalie X Style Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $4420 This stunning ring consists of four spectacular princess cut diamonds in the middle that are in an invisible setting. These diamonds have a total weight of .40 carats. The clean Vs2-Si1 clarity and H-I color grade makes these diamonds sparkle with great fire. Enhancing the diamonds, there are 1.20 carats worth of pave cut diamonds that glitter on the side. These diamonds are VS2-Si1 in clarity and H-I in color. This bold ring is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 9.89 grams.

.53 Carat Designer Style Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $1761 This fascinating anniversary style ring is a mixture of elegance and functionality. Its ideal design is a great everyday ring. This beautiful ring consists of .53 carats of round pave diamonds embedded in the middle and bordering the outside bands. These diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade of H-I. The high gloss setting is fabricated in 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 7.61 grams.

.35 Carat Fancy Yellow Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $1611 This wonderful diamond anniversary band has a colorful interlude that will amaze you. Glittering round cut diamonds line the top with a colorful hue of yellow. These fancy yellow diamonds have a total weight of .35 carats with a clarity and Vs2-Si1. Its unique color brilliance makes it a one of a kind design. The ring has a thin profile that is very versatile and will look great coupled with another ring. The delicate setting is made of high polished 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 0.73 grams.

1.25 Carat Round & Baguette Diamond 18Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $3239 This is a fantastic diamond anniversary band that is very elegant in design and will work great with any outfit you plan to wear it with. This band consists of .80 carats of beautiful baguette cut diamonds going through the middle. On the edge, there are .45 carats of round cut diamonds that complement the band. These diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 and have a color range of H-I. This band is made of 18K white gold with a total gold weight of 7.90 grams.

1.02 Carat Pave Set Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $2709 A remarkable and versatile diamond anniversary band designed to bring years of enjoyment. This spectacular band contains 1.02 carats of round cut diamonds in a pave type setting. These shimmering diamonds have a beautiful clarity of Vs2-Si1 with a color grade of H-I. Its simple and elegant appeal makes it a great piece to wear on its own or coupled with another ring. The gorgeous, high polished setting is made of 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 7.10 grams.

.52 Carat Round Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $1428 A brilliance of elegant flair is reflected off this gorgeous diamond anniversary band. Its simple style of pure beauty is accented by a sparkling display of round cut diamonds. These beautiful diamonds have a total weight of .52 carats and a clarity of Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. This fabulous and delicate band would look great with your existing engagement ring or by itself. The band is made of high polished 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 5.60 grams.

.59 Carat Alp Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $1299 Elegance abounds in this stunning diamond anniversary band. Its classical style is reinforced by seven sparkling round brilliant cut diamonds that total .59 carats. These gorgeous, precious stones have a clarity of Vs2-Si1 and a color grade ranging from H-I. The diamonds have a low profile setting which makes it a great piece for everyday wear. This stunning anniversary band is made of 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 3.50 grams.

.35 Carat Ekiden Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $1064 A delicate diamond anniversary band designed to become a favorite piece in your treasure trove. This stunning band contains a sparkling arrangement of round cut diamonds that total .35 carats. These gorgeous diamonds have a clarity of Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. Its thin design makes it an ideal piece to couple with your existing engagement ring so it doesn't look to bulky. Or, it would look great on its own. This ring is made of 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 3.0 grams.

.60 Carat Hand Etched Diamond 18Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $1739 This custom made diamond eternity band is fabricated by hand. The painstaking design includes hand etched side details that are unlike any ring you will ever see. A single line of glittering round diamonds accent this stunning piece. These diamonds total .60 carats in weight and have a clarity of VS2-Si1 with a color range of H-I. The diamonds themselves, are set flush with the band so it makes a great everyday piece. This ring is made of 18K white gold with a total gold weight of 4.72 grams.

.80 Carat Hand Etched Diamond 18Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $2331 This gorgeous diamond eternity band would made a great piece to accent your current engagement ring or it can be worn as an anniversary band. It consists of round cut diamonds going all the way around the band that total .80 carats. These beautiful diamonds range in clarity from VS2-Si1 with a color rang of H-I. The side of the band reveals an intricate design which is painstakingly hand etched. This band is made of 18K white gold with a total gold weight of 6.0 grams.

.50 Carat Jestina Diamond 14Kt White Yellow Gold Engagement Ring $1315 This sleek and contemporary diamond ring is a great everyday ring. Its low profile, and satin finished shank makes it an ideal piece for active lives. This ring features a 1/2 carat round brilliant cut diamond that is in a bezel setting. This sparkling diamond has a clarity of Vs2 with a color grade of I. The gorgeous setting has a satin finished shank and yellow gold bars on the side. This ring is made of 14K white and yellow gold with a total gold weight of 5.65 grams.

1/2 Carat Keith Bezel Set Diamond Ring With Sand Blasted Finish $1905 This sleek and contemporary diamond ring is a great everyday ring. Its low profile, and satin finished shank makes it an ideal piece for active lives. This ring features a 1/2 carat round brilliant cut diamond that is in a bezel setting. This sparkling diamond has a clarity of Vs2 with a color grade of H. The gorgeous setting has a satin finished shank and yellow gold bars on the side. This ring is made of 14K white and yellow gold with a total gold weight of 7.0 grams.

1.0 Carat Lucas Mans Diamond Wedding Band $1459 This exhilarating diamond band was created for that special man. A wonderful display of shimmering diamonds radiates with beauty from this ring. This amazing band contains 1.0 carats worth of precious diamonds in a pave type setting. This is a great ring for the active lifestyle as the diamonds are most secure in this type of setting. These diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. This band measures approximately 7mm in width and is made of high polished 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 9.20 grams.

1.12 Carat Rowan Diamond 14Kt Yellow Gold Engagement Ring $1794 This is a designer piece that features a .55 carat round brilliant diamond. This diamond has a clarity grade of Si3 with great fire. The color is an amazing grade of F which is colorless. On the side, there are .19 carats of beautiful baguette cut diamonds. The baguettes have a clarity of Vs2-Si1 and a color of H-I. Plus, there are .38 carats of round cut diamonds. The side rounds have a clarity of Vs2-Si1 and a color range of H-I. This ring is made of 14K yellow gold with a total gold weight of 6.47 grams.

1.0 Carat Jordyn Diamond 14Kt White Yellow Gold Engagement Ring $3762 This amazing diamond engagement ring with its classical appeal has a wonderful design that will inspire your imagination. A sparkling 1.0 carat princess cut diamond is the focal point of this gorgeous ring. This beautiful diamond has a clarity of Vs2 with a color grade of H. Highly detailed buckles accents this stunning piece while a groove design runs down the shank. Its exquisite styling makes it a great piece that will bring years of lasting memories. This ring is made of 14kt. white and yellow gold with a total gold weight of 6.0 grams.

2 Carat Sapphire & 1.20 Carat Diamond Eternity Band $4423 This wonderful eternity band will make a great gift for an upcoming anniversary or special occasion. It consists of 2.0 carats of beautiful princess cut sapphires in the center. These sapphires are genuine and have a clean clarity with a nice rich color. To complement the ring, there are 1.20 carats of round cut diamonds on the edge of the band. These diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 and a have a color range of H-I. This gorgeous ring is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 8.66 grams.

.50 Carat Tasha Diamond 14Kt White Gold Engagement Ring $1265 This stunning diamond engagement ring will make a dramatic impact on anyone who gazes upon its beauty. Its clean line represents a contemporary flair that is striking. At the center of this gorgeous piece lies a glittering, round brilliant cut diamond with a weight of .50 carats. This exceptional diamond has a clarity of Si2 and a color grade of I. The delicate look and lower setting of this pleasing ring makes it a great piece to wear on a daily basis. This stunning ring is made of 14kt white gold with a total gold weight of 4.20 grams.

.50 Carat Hannan Diamond 14Kt White Gold Engagement Ring $1425 Sleek sophistication is apparent in this contemporary diamond engagement ring. A beautiful ring that is streamlined and clean in appearance. At the center of this wonderful ring, a gorgeous .50 carat emerald cut diamond takes center stage. This striking diamond has a clarity of Vs2 and a color grade of H. The way this diamond is set makes it a great choice for someone who is active. Its low profile design makes it perfect for everyday wear. This superb piece of modern design is made of high polish 14kt white gold with a total gold weight of 7.50 grams.

.60 Carat Akili Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $1866 A modern and sleek piece that is refined in design. This stylish diamond anniversary band would make a great companion to an existing ring or would look astounding on its own. A sleek shank is interrupted by a unique pave set round diamond center. Glittering diamonds line the top, and a little on the side of this gorgeous piece. There are a total of .60 carats worth of precious diamonds. These diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade of H-I. The modern and highly polished setting is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 7.03 grams and measures approximately 9mm in width.

.25 Carat Signa Diamond 14Kt White Gold Engagement Ring $627 This fabulous diamond engagement ring has clean lines that is simply elegant, but with a contemporary flair. The centerpiece is a beautiful princess cut diamond that glitters profusely. This diamond is set low into the setting and slightly rotated into a star setting for added interest. The diamond has a weight of .25 carats and is Vs2 in clarity with a wonderful H color grade. The shank has a knife edged shank that gives it additional character. This piece is a great choice for those who are active as it has a very low profile. This ring is made of 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 3.90 grams.

.92 Carat Naiya2 Diamond 14Kt White Gold Anniversary Band $3174 This stunning modified version of model AB1231 will leave you in awe. A sparkling facade of princess and baguette cut diamonds, set in alteration, will capture your wildest dreams. The classical style consists of .52 carats of double stacked baguette cut diamonds and .40 carats of princess cut diamonds. These beautiful diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color ranging from H-I. This ring would make a sensational set coupled with another ring or would look great by itself. The beautiful setting is made of 14kt. white gold with a total gold weight of 3.25 grams.

1.25 Carat Baguette Diamond 14Kt Yellow Gold Eternity Band $3034 This remarkable diamond eternity band has a elegant design coupled by a sleek appeal. Beautiful baguette cut diamonds are horizontally channel set created a wonderful look that will be enjoyed for years to come. These glittering baguette have a total weight of 1.25 carats and go all the way around the band. The diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. This band measures approximately 3mm in width and would make a great companion to your existing rings. The clean looking setting is made of 14kt. yellow gold with a total gold weight of 3.0 grams. Due to the nature of this ring, it can not be resized and will be made to order.

1.29 Carat Diamond Platinum Anniversary Band $4422 This classically styled diamond anniversary band has a wonderful design that will be enjoyed for years to come. Its sleek and clean lines is highlighted by three rows of beautiful princess cut diamonds that are all invisibly set. These shimmering diamonds have a total weight of 1.29 carats and have a clarity of Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. The simplistic style of this band makes it a great piece to wear on a daily basis or coupled with another ring. This picturesque ring is created in high polished platinum and has a total metal weight of 11.0 grams.

.65 Carat Jalia Diamond Anniversary 14Kt White Gold Eternity Band $2005 This stunning diamond eternity band has a simplistic design, yet elegant flair. Shimmering round cut diamonds are set all the way around this band creating a wonderful appeal. There are a total of .65 carats worth of precious diamonds in this stimulating design. These diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. The thin demeanor of this outstanding ring makes it easy to couple with another ring, or it would look great on its own. This ring is made of 14kt. White gold with a total gold weight of 4.50 grams.

1.04 Carat Round Diamond 14Kt White Gold Eternity Band $2659 This amazing diamond eternity band shows exquisite brilliance and will become a favorite piece in your treasure trove. Its glittering display of round cut diamonds are set all the way around the band creating a wonderful appeal. There are a total of 1.04 carats worth of precious round cut diamonds in this gorgeous piece. These diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade ranging from H-I. This beautiful piece has a flat profile on the side and makes it perfect to couple with another ring, or it will look great all by itself. This stunning band is made of 14kt. White gold with a total gold weight of 3.40 grams.

8mm Diamond Comfort Fit Wedding Band $1016 These wedding bands are a great piece for anyone looking for something a little more flashy than your traditional bands. This particular band is a 8mm wide comfort fit band, which is heavier than the regular bands. It consists of round cut diamonds in a channel setting with a total weight of .43 carats. These glistening diamonds range in clarity from Vs2-Si1 with a color grade of H-I. This ring is made of 14K white gold with a total gold weight of 13.29 grams. Please note: the weight of this ring will vary in relation to the ring size. This weight was measured on a size 10 ring.