How to Make a Double Strand Victorian Pearl Bridal Necklace

The double strand Victorian pearl necklace is an exquisite piece of jewelry that will compliment most bridal gowns. It looks especially beautiful with a strapless wedding gown, off-the-shoulder wedding gown, or with a wedding gown that has a sweetheart neckline. I choose a heart shaped marcasite pendant when making this Victorian necklace, but there are a variety of pendants that the bride can choose from. The amount of pearls needed will vary because the bride may choose different necklace lengths. I gave approximate estimates of how many pearls will be needed for this bridal necklace, and I will estimate on the high side so you will have plenty of pearls if you need more to complete this Victorian bridal necklace.

Victorian Pearl Bridal Necklace

Supplies:

6 mm white pearl Swarovski crystals (Approximately 85 to 100 - they are sold in packs of 50)
Scissors
Jewelry glue
Double strand pearl clasp
Heart pendant
Tweezers
Ruler
White Accu-Flex beading wire

Directions:

1. Measure and cut two piece of beading wire, one that is 22 inches, and one that is 27 inches. An extra 4 inches was added to each length to allow for tying. If the bride wants the strands to be a different length, add an extra 4" inches to the length of each strand to allow for tying.

2. I started off making the Victorian bridal necklace by beading the smaller strand of pearls first. Place the pearls in a small bowl. You can use tweezers to pick up the pearls when stringing them on the jewelry wire. I find it easier and faster to pick the pearls up with my fingers. Do what is most comfortable for you. Tie the 22 inch piece of wire to the top loop of the pearl clasp. Tie again, trim ends, then put jewelry glue on the knot for added security. String on approximately 32 to 35 pearls. Tie the end of this string of pearls to the top loop of the other end of the clasp. Tie again, trim ends, then put jewelry glue on the knot for added security.

3. Tie the 27 inch piece of bead wire to the bottom loop of one end of the double clasp. Tie again, trim ends, then put jewelry glue on the knot for added security. String on approximately 20 pearls. Slide the heart pendant on the Victorian bridal necklace. String on the same amount of pearl beads that were strung on before adding the pendant. The main thing to remember is to string the same amount of pearls on each side of the pendant. Tie the end of this string of pearls to the bottom loop at the other end of the clasp. Tie again, trim ends, then put jewelry glue on the knot for added security.

The website www.firemountaingems.com offers the pearls in packs of 50. They also have pendants and other jewelry supplies needed to make this double strand Victorian pearl bridal necklace. The website www.jewelrysupply.com has a great selection of pendants.