Temple Bells

While I was researching a book on Tibetan jewelry, I became fascinated with their style of temple bells. Thinking about how to recreate these ornamental instruments, I thought, Aha! Bead cones! Thus I am pleased to present to you the following earring pattern. Although I used sterling silver for this pattern, my prototype was created in copper (which I personally prefer, due to the color variation).

Materials

• 20-, 21-, or 22-gauge round half hard wire wire, one 6" piece
• Fine Chain, one 6 3/4" segment
• 2  3mm round smooth beads
• 2  4mm round smooth beads
• 2  decorative bead cones
• 2  Ear wires

Tools

• Flat nose pliers
• Round nose pliers
• Chain nose pliers
• Wire cutters
• Ruler

Instructions

1. Following Sherrie's tutorial on Cutting Chain, cut two each of the following chain lengths: 1 1/4", 1", 5/8".
   
   
2. Straighten, measure and cut two 3" pieces of round half hard wire.
   
   
3. From the end of each 3" wire, measure up 3/4" and mark. At this mark begin a loop. Thread one of each chain length into the loop and then wrap the loop closed.
   
   
   
4. Slide a 3mm round bead onto the wire, on top of the wrapped loop; then the decorative bead cone and finally a 4mm round bead.
   
   
5. Use chain nose pliers to hold the wire immediately above the 4mm bead and bend the wire over the top of the pliers jaw. Make a wrapped loop, holding all of the components together. Add your favorite ear wires and enjoy!
   
   
   

< More Wire Jewelry Patterns and Ideas