Materials & Finishes Guide
A practical introduction to common jewelry-making materials and surface effects. Always check the individual product page for the specifications of the item you are considering.
Understanding the Basics
Acrylic
Lightweight and available in many colors, shapes, and effects. Suitable for projects where lower component weight is helpful.
Care: Keep away from high heat, solvents, and abrasive cleaners.Glass
Often selected for clarity, color depth, reflectivity, and surface variety. Glass components may be heavier and more fragile.
Care: Protect from impact and store separately from harder materials.Resin
A versatile material used for lightweight decorative shapes, embedded effects, and colorful components.
Care: Avoid prolonged heat, sunlight, alcohol, and strong chemicals.Metal & Alloy
Commonly used for charms, chains, clasps, spacers, and structural findings. Composition and coating vary by product.
Care: Keep dry and avoid perfume, sweat, and household chemicals.Wood
Naturally lightweight with visible grain and tonal variation. Each piece may have small differences in appearance.
Care: Store dry and avoid soaking, high humidity, and strong cleaners.Polymer Clay
Lightweight and often used for colorful handmade-style shapes and decorative focal pieces.
Care: Handle gently and avoid bending thin or projecting areas.Stone
Natural or stone-based components may show variations in pattern, color, opacity, shape, and weight.
Care: Avoid impact and confirm appropriate cleaning for the specific stone.Pearl-Look Materials
Pearl-style components may use different base materials and coatings to create smooth, lustrous surfaces.
Care: Wipe gently and keep away from perfume, moisture, and abrasion.Common Finishes
A smooth, reflective surface that emphasizes color and shine.
A softer, low-reflection appearance with a subdued look.
Allows light to pass through fully or partially.
Blocks light and gives the color a more solid appearance.
A light-reactive coating that can display shifting colors from different angles.
A reflective finish designed to resemble the appearance of metal.
A thin surface layer applied over a base material. Appearance may change with wear and chemical exposure.
A softly textured or diffused surface with reduced transparency and shine.
What to Check Before Ordering
DimensionsDiameter, length, width, thickness, and hole size.
Package QuantityPiece, strand, pack, box, roll, set, or approximate weight.
CompatibilityHole size, connector size, chain thickness, weight, and intended use.
Care NeedsExposure to water, friction, sunlight, cosmetics, and chemicals.