How to Make a Sea Glass Necklace
I have always loved sea glass. There is something special about the worn, weathered smoothness of each piece. I found some beautiful frosted sea glass beads and knew I had to create a necklace. This project uses a wire wrapped technique that is simple to learn. You do not need to be a professional artist to get great results with this DIY sea glass necklace project.
Materials You Need
Gather these supplies before you begin your creation:
- Sterling Silver Chain (17 inches works well).
- 20 Gauge Sterling Silver Wire.
- 2 Small Jump Rings.
- 1 Larger Jump Ring.
- 1 Clasp (A lobster clasp is a good pick).
- Sea glass beads (You can find sea glass or buy them).
- Wire cutters and pliers.
Step 1: Prepare the Chain
Take your silver chain. Use your wire cutters to cut it exactly in half. This creates the two sides of your necklace. Ensure both pieces are equal in length so the pendant sits in the center.
Step 2: Start the Wire Wrap
You will make a bar to hold the sea glass beads. Start by taking the silver wire. Loop it through one end of the chain piece you cut. Bend the wire back to form a loop. Leave a little extra wire at the end. You need this tail to wrap around the main wire stem.
Step 3: Secure the Loop
Using your pliers, bend the short tail around the main wire stem. This secures the chain to your new pendant bar. Keep the wraps tight and neat.
Step 4: Trim Excess Wire
Wrap the wire around roughly 2 1/2 times. Use your cutters to snip off any extra wire from the tail. Use pliers to tuck in the sharp end so it does not scratch your skin. This creates a professional setting for your beads.
Step 5: Add the Sea Glass
Thread your sea glass beads onto the wire. You can use a single color or mix them. Once the beads are on, repeat the wire wrapping steps on the other side. Attach the second piece of chain before you close the loop. This completes the center bar of your jewelry design.
Step 6: Attach the Clasp
To finish the item, take the two small jump rings and open them. Attach one to each loose end of the chain. On one side, add the lobster clasp before closing the ring. On the other side, add the larger jump ring. Close both rings securely. Now your sea glass necklace is ready to wear.
This creates a perfect piece of handmade jewelry. It is simple, modern, and elegant.
Finding and Using Sea Glass Treasures
Part of the fun is the hunt. Beachcombing along the Atlantic or any shore can yield amazing results. Look for pieces that are fully frosted. This means they have spent a long time in the surf. Green, brown, and clear are common. Blue and red are rare and special. If you cannot find your own, you can visit a local shop or buy a kit online.
You can use these techniques for more than just necklaces. Make a matching bracelet or a pair of earrings. You might even set a small piece in a ring bezel. Whether you use gold or silver, the beautiful glass remains the star.
Conclusion
Making your own sea glass jewelry allows you to carry a piece of the ocean with you. It is a wonderful way to use beach finds. You can keep it for yourself or give it as a gift. The process is relaxing and the results amaze people. Use your creativity and start making your own premium seaglass accessories today. Whether you keep it or gift it, this DIY sea glass necklace is sure to impress.
FAQs
Q: What is a sea glass necklace and how does it differ from a sea glass pendant?
A: A sea glass necklace is jewelry that features sea glass as its focal element, often strung on a chain or cord; a sea glass pendant specifically refers to a single piece of sea glass that is set or wrapped and hangs as a distinct focal charm on the necklace.
Q: How can I tell if a piece of sea glass is a genuine sea glass stone or a manufactured piece?
A: Genuine sea glass typically has a frosted surface and rounded edges from natural tumbling in sand and waves, whereas manufactured or tumbled glass may look too uniform, have sharp remnants, or show polishing marks; inspect the texture and irregularities to help determine authenticity.
Q: What care instruction should I follow to keep my sea glass necklace looking its best?
A: Clean your sea glass pendant gently with lukewarm water and mild soap, avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, dry thoroughly, and store the necklace away from direct sunlight and abrasive items to preserve both the sea glass surface and any metal settings.
Q: Are sea glass necklaces made with semi-precious stones combined with sea glass common?
A: Yes, many artisan makers combine sea glass with semi-precious stones like labradorite, moonstone, or turquoise to create mixed-material designs that add color, contrast, and increased durability while offering a range of many styles to suit different tastes.
Q: Where are popular locations to find authentic sea glass for making a sea glass necklace, such as Maine?
A: Coastal areas with a history of shipping, glass disposal, or mills are common spots to find sea glass; beaches in Maine, along with other northeastern and Pacific coasts, are known for yielding a variety of colors and sizes suitable for crafting pendants and necklaces.
