The desire to create your own gold jewelry is a consuming passion. But where to begin? Faced with the multitude of tools and supplies, taking the first step can seem daunting. Should you invest in complex equipment? Which thread should you choose? What chain is best for your first necklace?
At La Fille du Sud, we've helped hundreds of creators take their first steps. The good news is, you don't need a full studio to get started. A few quality tools and the right basic supplies are all you need to unleash your creativity. Here's your essential shopping list.
1. Essential Tools (The Trio of Pliers)
You don't need anything more to get started. Invest in quality; these tools will serve you for years to come.
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The Flat Pliers: To hold firmly, fold the corners and flatten.
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Round Nose Pliers: The magic tool for creating perfect loops and rings.
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The Cutting Pliers: For a clean and precise cut of your threads and chains.
2. The Raw Material: The "All-Purpose" Gold Thread
This is the foundation of everything. For your first projects, you need a versatile and easy-to-work-with wire. The most universal diameter to start with is the 0.8mm .
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The Ideal Choice for Beginners: Our 0.8mm 18k Annealed Gold Wire
This is the perfect reference. It has the standard diameter for creating rings, earring hooks, or a thin band. Being 18-karat gold, you learn directly from the standard of fine jewelry. -
The Smart Alternative in 9k: Our 0.7mm Annealed 9k Gold Wire
If you prefer to start with 9-karat gold, we recommend our 0.7mm wire. It's very close to the standard, very pleasant to work with for fine details, and its more affordable price is perfect for practicing without fear.
All our sons are annealed , which makes them extremely flexible and ideal for shaping.
3. The Base of Your Necklace: The Classic Chain
For your first necklace or bracelet, choose a timeless and easy-to-work-with link.
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The Ideal Choice: Convict Knitwear
It's an absolute classic. Solid, elegant, it suits all styles. -
Our Selection: A A 1.3mm Forçat chain is an excellent starting point.
4. The Finish: The Secure Clasp
A good piece of jewelry needs a good setting. To start, the simplest and most reliable is the best.
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The Ideal Choice: The Carabiner Clasp with Open Ring
It is robust, easy to handle and its open ring allows for very simple assembly, without welding. -
Our Selection: THE The 9k Gold Flat Lobster Clasp is perfect to complement your wire and chain.
5. The "Magic" Element: The Joining Ring
It's the most underrated yet most essential component. It's the "seam" of your jewelry, what connects all the elements together.
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The Ideal Choice: An assortment of a few sizes.
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Our Recommendation Take some 4mm 18k gold jump rings / 4mm 9k gold jump rings . This is the most versatile size to start with.
Conclusion: You are ready to create!
Congratulations! With these 5 essential elements, you have everything you need to create your first gold necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The most beautiful thing about jewelry making is that the journey is as precious as the destination.
Go for it, experiment, and most importantly, have fun.