Hand made chains
 

Most of the jewelers usually purchase chains that are cut for 16 - 17
inches with suitable end caps and a clasp. But in toady's trends and
fashion, the jewelry designers design their necklaces and make handmade
chain in non standard length. It gives the jewelry prestige and
uniqueness.
There are also many kinds and shapes of chains (non hand made chains)
that can be combined with hand made chains: thick chains, thin chains,
light chains, links chains and many more.
I would like to elaborate more about the light and thin chains.
The most common light and thin chains are the links chains and
threading chains.

The threading chains fits for threading beads. Usually these are thin
chains, since the beads hole is very small. Between the beads you can
string
Squeezable small beads to separate between the beads.
On the link's chains you can hang beads and charms with thin wire 26-28
gauge (0.3-0.4mm) that can be drilled through the links of the chain.
Since the chains are very light, you can wrap them around the neck
twice or three times in different length.
The chains should be ended with end caps that fit the chain by
squeezing the end caps or by soldering them.
Another option is to solder jump ring on the chain or connect it to the
link chain, and then to attach it to the clasp.
On my opinion, it is better to use jump ring that contain the solder in
it, it is easier to use. It enables high quality finish of your jewel
and it saves both time and waste of solder.

About the hand made chains: You can make chains by links or wire
(solder the links or the wire). If you wish to save time on soldering
work, you can use links and wires that contain solder.
There are many shapes of wi half round wire shape, swivel wire,
round wire in different thickness, decorated half round wires.

If you want your jewelry to be different and special you can make the
clasp on your own: S clasp, Toggle clasps or any other special shapes
of hand made clasps.

In order to calculate the cost of your hand made necklace or any other
kind of chain, there is a jewelry pricing calculator, which enables you
to calculate its cost up to its retail price.

I will be happy to hear more ideas of hand made clasps chains or any
other kind of jewelry.

Hila
http://www.pasternakfindings.com