The Jewelry Maker’s Dictionary: F
Welcome to the Jewelry Maker’s Dictionary – Letter F, presented by Continental Bead Suppliers. This section is packed with essential jewelry-making terminology — from findings to finishes — that every maker should know. Whether you're a hobbyist or professional designer, this glossary will help you better understand your materials, tools, and design possibilities.
Faceted Bead
A bead with flat, angled cuts on its surface that create extra sparkle and light reflection. Faceting is common in glass, crystal, and gemstone beads.
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Fashion Jewelry
Jewelry made from non-precious metals and materials, designed to be affordable and trendy. Often incorporates plated components, acrylics, and synthetic stones.
Feather Charm
A decorative charm shaped like a feather, commonly used in bohemian and spiritual jewelry designs.
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Filigree
Delicate, lace-like metalwork made from thin wires twisted or soldered into ornate patterns. Often used in vintage or antique-inspired jewelry.
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Findings
The essential components used to assemble jewelry, such as clasps, ear wires, jump rings, crimps, head pins, and bails.
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Fire-Polished Beads
Czech glass beads that are faceted and reheated in a flame to create a smooth, shiny surface. Known for their durability and brilliant finish.
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Fishhook Ear Wire
A common earring finding with a curved, hook-shaped wire that passes through a pierced ear. Also known as French hook ear wires.
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Flat Back Stone
A rhinestone or cabochon with a flat back, used for gluing into settings, bezels, or directly onto metal or fabric.
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Flat Nose Pliers
Jewelry pliers with flat, wide jaws used for gripping, bending, and flattening wire or metal. Great for opening and closing jump rings without leaving marks.
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Flex Wire (Beading Wire)
Flexible wire made of multiple stainless steel strands coated with nylon. Strong, kink-resistant, and commonly used for stringing beads.
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Floating Necklace
A necklace style where beads appear to “float” on an invisible or barely-visible stringing material, often created with illusion cord or beading wire and crimp beads.
Fluorite
A colorful, translucent gemstone known for its calming hues and spiritual symbolism. Often found in greens, purples, and blues.
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Foil-Back Bead
A bead with a reflective metallic coating on the back, enhancing shine and depth. Common in rhinestones and vintage-style jewelry.
Fold Over Crimp
A type of crimp that folds around cord or ribbon and is secured with pliers. Typically has a loop or hook for attaching clasps.
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French Wire (Bullion Wire)
A coiled wire used to protect thread at the clasp area of a beaded strand. Adds both function and elegance in strung jewelry.
Freshwater Pearl
A cultured pearl grown in freshwater mollusks. Often irregular in shape and used in everything from bridal jewelry to boho-inspired pieces.
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Fringe Beads
Tiny seed beads or drops used to create decorative fringe at the edges of earrings, necklaces, or beadwork.
Frosted Bead
A bead with a matte or “frosted” finish that gives a soft, velvety look instead of a high-gloss shine. Available in glass, acrylic, and gemstone materials.
➡️ Continue Learning: Jewelry Maker’s Dictionary – G
Click here to explore the next set of jewelry-making terms starting with the letter G.