Simply Gemstones

Book excerpt: Celebrities and fashion runways are glittering with gemstones, more than ever these days. But for the growing hordes of jewellery makers, gemstones can prove very daunting to work with. Nancy Alden of the popular Beadworks series gives readers a full introduction to the craft and, in her typical fashion, takes all the anxiety out of the process. Readers will learn how to create stunning gemstone earrings, necklaces and bracelets - with a gem and corresponding project to complement any look. Plus today s wide availability and competitive pricing of precious and semi-precious stones, makes what had once been exclusive, expensive projects completely doable.