Jewelry Tools

• Pliers are indispensable for jewelry repair. Chain-nose pliers have pointed tips and are designed to hold components and bend wire into loops. They can be used to close jump-rings, also.
  
  Gem setting and crimping pliers tighten the prongs of jewelry settings and secure the end of a string of beads.
  
  A hot glue gun with various tips sizes will allow quick fixes to re-attach missing beads or gemstones.
  
  A magnifying glass or magnifier stand with a spotlight can be a useful hands-free tool.
  
  A sharp pair of scissors and wire nippers with short pointed blades are necessary to snip wire and thread. Purchase the ones with easy to grip, non-slip handles.
  
  An craft knife set with multiple blades is useful for slicing through packaging or cord.
  
  Tape measures, ring sizers and dowels will guarantee the correct fit and help you adjust rings and looped components.
  
  Bead boards come with a slip-proof surface for working with beads, gems and findings, and have recessed sections to hold components and measurement marks.
  
  

Beads and Decorative Components

• Maintain a supply of beads, gemstones, rhinestones and charms in an array of sizes and colors. Purchase assorted metal, glass, wooden, ceramic and seed beads in bulk bags or kits. A storage bin with multiple see-through compartments will keep them organized for easy access.
  
  

Clasps and Findings

• The jewelry clasp assortment should include each metal and style, such as, lobster claw, toggle, hook-and-eye and spring-loaded. Keep a supply of earring hooks and loops in pierced and clip-on styles. Don't forget those very important crimp beads, jump rings and pins.
  
  

Wire, Chain and Stringing Materials

• Wire, chain, thread and cord are needed to repair necklaces and bracelets, and can be purchased in bulk. Wire comes in different shapes and metals, such as sterling silver, gold-plated, copper, nickel and stainless steel. The terms "dead soft," "half hard" or "full hard" indicate how easily the wire bends. Thread is available in different colors, as well as elastic. Purchase an assortment of chain in different link styles in copper, sterling silver, stainless steel and gold-plated. Lastly, include a supply of cord in leather, rubber, silk and hemp in assorted colors and thickness.