In this article, we'll look at how to use rhinestone chain ends. Rhinestone chains are made up of crimps attached to one another. Inside the crimps, you'll find shiny cabochons in a variety of materials: zirconium oxides, glass, crystal and many others that will add glitter to your life. These cabochons are usually transparent and faceted to give the illusion of diamonds, but sometimes they can be colored. These chains can be used to create bracelets, rhinestone necklaces and even dangling earrings.
Today, simple bracelets made with this type of chain are commonly called Tennis bracelets. In this video, we show you the origins of the name Tennis bracelet, and how to turn this rhinestone chain into a piece of jewelry. Yes, you can't add a ring directly to these rhinestone chains to attach a clasp. You have to use special ferrules adapted to the size of the chain. These are often square or round, with a welded ring to which you can attach your clasp.
Ideally, you should use end pieces of the same size and shape as the chain. So, to add an end piece to a chain with 3 mm square rhinestones, you'll need to use a 3 mm square end piece. Usually, suitable end pieces are indicated on the chain's product sheet in the "Compatible with" section. Sometimes this information is missing, so don't hesitate to ask.
To attach a clasp to rhinestone chain, you'll also need jewelry pliers. Flat-tipped pliers are all you need to fold back the prongs on the end. To cut the chain, you'll need a good pair of sturdy cutting pliers. As an example, we're going to use 3 mm rhinestone chain in gold-plated stainless steel and 3 mm square ferrules. Here's what the tip looks like:
Cut the chain to the desired length. Cut the metal part that connects the crimps.
Use flat-nose pliers. The pliers shown in the photo are flat-nose pliers with an angled tip.
Place the last crimp of your chain in the ferrule.
Fold the "claws" of the end cap over the cabochon on both sides. The appearance of the "claws" or "tabs" may differ from endpiece to endpiece.
Check that your chain is locked inside the clasp. If your clasp has an open ring, simply attach it directly, or use another open ring to connect your clasp to the ferrule. To fasten the clasp, you'll need to attach another ring to the other side of the chain.
Credits
Perles & Co, Internet & E-Commerce company [07/10/2015] Any reproduction, representation, adaptation, in any form whatsoever, even partial, is prohibited, except for reproduction for private use not intended for collective use, representation in the family circle (art. L 122-5 CPI) and online publishing on condition that the source is mentioned and a link is included to the corresponding page of our site www.perlesandco.com.
