Choosing Colors and Textures of Beads That Complement Each Other

The following are a few important steps I’ve found on the road to creating a great and memorable piece of jewelry. I call this piece “Indigo Mood Bracelet”.

First, you fall in love. When you find a great bead it will undoubtedly become the focal point around which the whole jewelry piece will revolve. When you find beads that move you (like these lampwork beads have moved me), you snatch ‘em up fast and head home to make big plans.

Complement the elements. After studying your wonderful finds a bit more closely, what do you like best? What elements of the beads do you want to bring out and celebrate? I loved the deep blues in these beads, but didn’t want to overlook the white, and I was certain that white pearls would give this piece a classic and timeless look.

Accentuate the subtleties. I found smooth glass beads that appeared to be the perfect complement to the lampwork beads. The blue was just the right shade of blue to pick up the swirl pattern in the lampwork beads.

Make it sparkle. Who can resist Swarovski crystals with such gorgeous lampwork beads? I chose blue and an iridescent for added notability.

Give it style. I took a risk here by adding the base metal spacers, but coupled with the glass pearls, I think it widens the classic dimension. I think the risk was worth it. What do you think?

Create the right balance. Whether you want a striking piece or an understated one, balance your beads so your colors and textures have a harmonious symmetry. That may mean arranging and rearranging until you have a sequence that works perfectly.

Finish the way you start. Choose clasps and findings that do justice to the finished piece. Sometimes this may mean paying a bit more, but trust me, it will be worth it in the end. Enjoy your finished product!

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