I've always loved making my own jewelry. There's something so satisfying about creating unique pieces that reflect my personal style. Recently, I decided to focus on necklaces, specifically dainty sterling silver chain necklaces. I envisioned creating delicate, layered looks, but I quickly realized finding a reliable source for quality chains at a reasonable price was a bigger challenge than I anticipated.
My initial plan was to create a small batch of necklaces, maybe 25 to 50, to start. The price was definitely a factor, as I wanted to keep my costs down without sacrificing quality. I started my search, but quickly ran into a few roadblocks. I needed to find a place that sold in bulk, offered sterling silver, and wouldn't break the bank. I also wanted to avoid the hassle of sourcing from multiple places.
I began researching various suppliers and came across several recommendations from fellow jewelry makers. One name that kept popping up was Rio Grande. I heard they offered a wide selection of fine chains, sold in bulk on spools, which seemed perfect for my needs. I also learned about Cooksongold, which sounds great if you're in the UK or EU. They seem to have a strong reputation for B2B sales.
Someone also suggested Fire Mountain Gems. I checked out their website, and they seemed to have a decent selection, but Rio Grande still seemed like the more focused option for my project. Another suggestion was CGM Findings, but they require a business or vendor license, which I didn't have at the time.
Then, I stumbled upon Halstead. The rave reviews about their customer service really caught my attention. Apparently, they have a great selection and are known for going the extra mile to help their customers. That was a huge plus for me, as I sometimes need guidance on specific findings or techniques. You can check them out at Halstead Bead.
After weighing all my options, I decided to give Rio Grande a try. The fact that they specialized in selling in bulk on spools was a major selling point. The process of ordering was easy and the customer service was great. I found exactly what I needed for my necklaces.
With my sterling silver chains secured, I was ready to start designing. I've been experimenting with different styles, from minimalist pendants to more elaborate beaded designs. Recently, I've been drawn to the Kpop Baroque Pearls Necklace. I saw a similar design at BlingCharming Jewelers, and it inspired me to create my own version.

I love the combination of the delicate chain with the unique baroque pearls and geometric beads. It's a fun, trendy piece that adds a touch of personality to any outfit. The necklace from BlingCharming features a really cute design.
I decided to adapt the design and create my own version. I used a similar sterling silver chain from Rio Grande and sourced my own baroque pearls and geometric beads. The result was a stunning necklace that I am proud to sell. It's given me a new creative outlet and a potential source of income.
Based on my experience, here are a few tips to keep in mind when buying sterling silver chains in bulk: