The Fire Mountain Gems Jewelry Designers Catalog

When I was 16 years old; the Internet was not accessible to me. In fact my family didn't have the Internet until I was about 19. At 16 I learned how to design jewelry by reading books. I found my jewelry design supply companies in a directory listing in the back of my favorite design book.

I remember my Mom gave me some money to buy catalogs; and to get supplies to start designing. One thing that stood out to me, is that I remember my Fire Mountain Gems catalog being free. I ordered the Fire Mountain Gems catalog along with about three or four others.

To be honest; I don't even remember the names of the other catalogs. I was mesmerized by the Fire Mountain Gems catalog; and was able to afford some items from it.

My Mom and Dad gave me $200 to start my jewelry designing business. I couldn't wait to get started. This was because all of the items in the Fire Mountain Gems Catalog had been pictured so beautifully; and I knew immediately after the first time I read the book from cover to cover, that I would always be a jewelry designer.

I used my money to buy needles, silk thread, nylon thread, jump rings, split rings, and everything else you need to design beaded jewelry. Of course some supplies have changed with the times; and I now use mostly stringing wire for my beaded jewelry.

Another fond memory that the Fire Mountain Gems catalog brings to mind; is how through it, I learned about semi-precious stones.

In DC I had only ever seen jewelry made of sterling silver, gold, or plastic. Sometimes there was an occasional ruby, sapphire, piece of turquoise or birthstone thrown in the mix. But, before Fire Mountain; that's all that I knew even existed in the world of jewelry.

I went on to sell my jewelry at school to friends and teachers: crafting pieces out of picture jasper, jade, carnelian and-yes-even some acrylic. My audience was very receptive.

Today, jewelry design is an easier hobby to have. There are many suppliers; and much information available online. Though Fire Mountain has an excellent online presence; I still order the Fire Mountain Gems paper catalog because it still inspires me to create the same way that it did years ago. I use the online site to improve my craft and learn new things. The site has excellent step by step tutorials on how to use most of-if not all-of the products they sell.

As far as pricing, Fire Mountain Gems retail has always been priced at about middle to me; with excellent sales on a weekly basis. Because of their sales and bulk pricing; I've always ordered from them. In addition, their customer service staff is very helpful; and knows what they're talking about. Fire Mountain's 14kt and 24kt gold is a bit pricey-even for today's standards-but other than that; I'm sure you will be pleased with your shopping experience at Fire Mountain Gems.