How can I make Gemstone beaded necklaces that won't break when playing tennis etc?

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Permalink Reply by Lorri Ely on October 8, 2011 at 12:58pm

You might try using the wire guard thingies, or cable thimble which is designed to prevent this sort of fraying:
http://www.artbeads.com/handy-tips-cable-thimble.html

http://beads.artbeads.com/search?w=wire+guards&asug=wire+

and also, you might check into a swivel type of clasp that allows for movement.
http://beads.artbeads.com/search?w=swivel

Also, double crimp at the ends or use the thicker higher quality crimps if you think they are breaking at the crimp.

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Permalink Reply by Carolyn Nau on October 10, 2011 at 7:11am

Thanks for all the great suggestions.
I am using the guards and that helps, but yes sometimes they do break at the crimp.

The one I've really had issues with though was with a tube with loop on it (can't think of what it's called) that I used to hang a pendant. In desperation I redid the design without the tube and hung the pendant just from a double jump ring, hoping that'll work better since there won't be any edges to rub against.

I have a solution that's worked well if it's just a strand that's at least 24" long and doesn't need to have a pendant that is taken off, so can just stay clasped. I simply do a round strand, and crimp on both sides of one of the end beads (after I ream it out enough to let two heavy wires through), that reduces any tugging or pulling and seems to be working. (knocking on lots of wood here). I have several men clients who are all super active, but like to wear the necklaces for the gemstone energy boost, but keeping them together for more than 4-5 months has been an ongoing challenge.

Love your idea of the swivel clasp, that could be useful in some cases as well.

Lori, you are the best.
Carolyn

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