When in Doubt, Ask a Jewelry Vendor

For a while now, I have been making a conscious effort to include vendor information whenever I can, especially for specialty jewelry components. I did this for a few reasons. First, over the years, I regularly received emails asking where to get specific pieces for specific projects, so I realized this was something that a good number of readers found helpful. Secondly, I noticed a fair number of jewelry making magazines, such as BeadStyle, were doing this as well.

Granted, I know many jewelry makers use my projects more as lessons in techniques or a starting place where they then branch off into creating their own twist on the design. However, I also have some readers who like to make exactly the piece of jewelry featured in the project.

Even when I do offer the item number and vendor who supplied the component in the project, it can be tricky finding the piece. Catalog numbers may not match web site numbers. Items may come from a special sales flyer, and so on. Therefore, when in doubt, always remember that the vendor is probably your best bet for tracking down specific jewelry components. Just an example, I was trying to find something on line at the Fire Mountain Gems and Bead site the other day, and I couldn’t find it. I clicked on their live chat option, and a few minutes later, I was directed to the link I need for that product.

So, bottom line – while I do try to offer product information when I can – remember that you can always ask most jewelry suppliers for help when trying to find a specific jewelry making component. Most have excellent customer service, and of course, want you to buy from them, so they are more than happy to help.