The beauty of a cabochon can be greatly enhanced and highlighted by properly designing the mounting for it.  In this article I want to give you several ideas and examples to show how you can make the most of your cabochons, especially when it comes to making a unique beaded cabochon necklace.

A cabochon is generally defined as a flat-backed stone, or other material, with a domed top which is usually polished. There are several ways to prepare a cabochon for use in jewelry, such as mounting it in a gold or silver setting, wire wrapping, or finishing it with beadwork. Of all these options, a beaded cabochon offers the best choice because the design possibilities with this technique are endless.

Types of Cabochons:

Some cabochons are calibrated, meaning they are cut to a very precise size and shape. Others are freeform and may also be asymmetrical.  Small cabochons may be used to make beautiful earrings and bracelets, or be combined with a larger cabochon for a unique and lovely piece of jewelry. A nicely cut and polished semi-precious stone cabochon, finished with beadwork, makes a fabulous centerpiece for a stunning one-of-a-kind necklace.

Importance of Bead Selection:

The beads used to make a beaded cabochon are like the paint colors in an artist’s palette. Beads in the same colors as those found in the stone will give a very different effect than beads of a contrasting color. Metallic beads provide an elegant accent and really give the beadwork a finished look, while a mix of matte and shiny beads give it extra dimension.

Depending on the style of beadwork used to enhance it, the same cabochon can have an ultra-feminine or vintage look, or appear bold and modern. The theme of the necklace should extend from the beaded cabochon into the rest of the jewelry piece. For example, fringe can be a wonderful extension of the style chosen for the necklace. On the other hand, if the stone itself is large and important in scale, fringe may not be called for as part of the design.

The clasp and neckline beads used should also be chosen carefully, as they are an integral part of the overall effect of the finished piece. The stones in the necklace itself may be of the same type as the cabochon, or they may be in a different, but compatible, material. For example, a translucent agate cabochon will usually look best with light and translucent neckline beads, rather than with a heavy, patterned, opaque jasper.

There are a number of elements that go into the creation of a necklace featuring a beaded cabochon. When they all come together, the result is a lovely work of wearable art that will be a delight to own and enjoy for many years to come.  Take your time when designing the elements that will be used to highlight your cabochon.  You can easily test the effect of your supporting elements by placing them loosely around your cabochon prior to actually stringing the beads.  Keep the theme or desired look in mind when you are in the design stage and you will find that your beaded cabochon will be a great eye catcher wherever you wear it.