BeaDictionary
A dictionary of the terminology used in jewellery making.
a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z
Magnetic clasp
Magnetic clasps uses two magnets. The magnets hold the two components of the clasp together, the clasp is opened by simply pulling apart the two magnets apart.
Malachite
Malachite is a copper carbonate hydroxide mineral. The copper in the mineral gives Malachite a green colour.
Mandrel
A round or bar around which metal or glass be shaped. They can be used to make findings such as earwires and jump rings.
Matinee necklace
A matinee length necklace is 56 centimetres (22 in) to 58 centimetres (23 in) long - typically a single strand.
Matte
Generally means not shiny. Beads that are matte finished / coated have been chemically treated to reduce their reflectiveness to a minimum.
Memory wire
Memory wire are usually made of stainless steel. The wire remembers its original shape. Pressure can be applied to bend them but once the pressue is released, the memory wire will return to its original shape.
Millefiori
Millefiori is a glasswork technique that products a mosaic pattern, quite often a mosaic of flowers. Millefiori beads are also known as mosaic beads.
The Millefiori technique involves using glass rods which are patterned across the cross-section, these rods are then cut into beads or other glass components.
The Millefiori technique involves using glass rods which are patterned across the cross-section, these rods are then cut into beads or other glass components.
Miracle beads
These are plastic beads that have a mirrored silver core. The core is then covered with multiple layers of lacquer. When light passes through the lacquer, it is reflective back by the mirror core, this creates an illusion of depth.
Mirror backed
A reflective coating on part of the surface of transparent materials, either to act directly as a mirror, or to multiply internal reflections created by the bead facets.
Mohs scale
The Mohs scale of mineral hardness is based on the ability of one natural sample of mineral to scratch another mineral visibly. The samples of matter used by Mohs are all different minerals. The Mohs scale ranges from 1 to 10. With 10 being the hardest. Diamond has Mohs hardness of 10 and talc has a Mohs hardness of 1.
Mosaic
Mosaic is decorative art involving small pieces of glass, stone, or other material.
Mosaic beads
See Millefiori beads.
Mother of pearl
Also known as nacre.
Mother of pearl, is an organic-inorganic composite material produced by some molluscs as an inner shell layer
Mother of pearl, is an organic-inorganic composite material produced by some molluscs as an inner shell layer
Multi-strand Clasp
These clasps are used to secure multiple strands of strings, chains, cords or wires.
Recently viewed
I am really thrilled with my order, & it didn't take long to be delivered.
Liz
Liz
