DIY Amethyst Choker Necklace: Easy Beaded Jewelry Tutorial

Updated at: 15/03/2025

Amethyst, with its captivating purple hues and calming energy, is a gemstone that resonates with many. Turning this beautiful stone into a stunning piece of jewelry is easier than you might think! This tutorial will guide you through the creation of a delicate and elegant amethyst choker necklace, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. No prior jewelry-making experience is necessary – we’ll walk you through each step, ensuring a beautiful and personalized result. This DIY project is not only fun and rewarding but also a cost-effective way to create a unique piece that reflects your personal style.

Get ready to unleash your inner artisan and discover the joy of crafting! We'll show you how to effortlessly combine the rich color of amethyst beads with simple beading techniques to create a beautiful choker necklace you'll be proud to wear. Follow along with our step-by-step instructions and let's begin crafting your amethyst masterpiece.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 4mm bicone crystals (amethyst color)
  • 22 gauge wire
  • 20 gauge wire
  • 14 inches of 3mm thick flat faux suede cord
  • Round nose pliers
  • Flat nose pliers
  • Chain nose pliers (optional)
  • Wire cutters
  • Rawhide mallet (optional)
  • Jump rings (optional)
  • Clasp (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Avoid using sharp tools near your eyes or face. Always exercise caution when working with small, potentially sharp beads.
  • Wash your hands before and after handling beads to prevent transferring oils or dirt that might dull their shine.
  • If using wire, be mindful of sharp ends and avoid excessive force that could cause breakage or injury.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • Gather 8 amethyst bicone crystals, 22 gauge wire, 14 inches of faux suede cord, and clasp materials.
    Prepare materials: Gather 8 amethyst bicone crystals, 22 gauge wire, 14 inches of faux suede cord, and clasp materials.
    Prepare Materials

  2. Create Beaded Loops

    • Wrap eight 4mm bicones with 22 gauge wire, forming loops large enough for the cord to pass through. Secure the loops using round nose pliers.
    Create beaded loops: Wrap eight 4mm bicones with 22 gauge wire, forming loops large enough for the cord to pass through. Secure the loops using round nose pliers.
    Create Beaded Loops

  3. Attach First Cord Pair

    • Cut two 7-inch lengths of faux suede cord. Attach one end of each cord to a beaded loop using a short piece of 22-gauge wire, wrapping it securely and tucking the ends neatly.
    Attach cords: Cut two 7-inch lengths of faux suede cord. Attach one end of each cord to a beaded loop using a short piece of 22-gauge wire, wrapping it securely and tucking the ends neatly.
    Attach First Cord Pair

  4. Attach Remaining Cord Pairs

    • Repeat step 3 for the remaining three cord ends on each side, ensuring the ‘ugly’ side of the wire is facing inward.

  5. Make Clasps

    • Create jump rings and/or a swan clasp using 20 gauge wire. The swan clasp involves creating a tight swirl, then shaping it into a swan-like form, leaving space for cord attachment.
    Prepare Clasps: Create jump rings and/or a swan clasp using 20 gauge wire. The swan clasp involves creating a tight swirl, then shaping it into a swan-like form, leaving space for cord attachment.
    Make Clasps

  6. Attach Clasps to Necklace

    • Attach the jump rings and clasp to the cord ends, securing them tightly.
    Attach Clasps: Attach the jump rings and clasp to the cord ends, securing them tightly.
    Attach Clasps to Necklace

Read more: Elegant Russian Spiral Necklace Tutorial: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Use cheaper wire instead of sterling silver to reduce costs.
  • Practice making the loops and cord bindings to determine the optimal amount of wire needed.
  • Leave a natural curve in the beaded wire to conform to the neck.
  • Use flat nose pliers to wrap and secure the wire around the cord.
  • For a sturdier clasp, use a rawhide mallet to gently hammer it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Bead Spacing

Reason: Inconsistent pressure or technique while stringing beads leads to gaps or overcrowding.
Solution: Practice maintaining consistent tension on the stringing wire and use a beading mat for even distribution.

2. Weak Knotting/Closure

Reason: Using insufficient knots or a flimsy clasp results in the necklace breaking easily.
Solution: Secure the knot with several tight overhand knots and use a strong, reliable clasp.

FAQs

What type of beads and stringing materials do I need for this project?
You'll primarily need amethyst beads (size 6mm-8mm is recommended for a delicate choker), strong beading wire or elastic cord (depending on your preference for clasp or no clasp), and optionally, crimps and clasp components if using beading wire.