I was very excited when Elisa, the assistant editor at Kalmbach Books, stopped by my office and dropped off a copy of the new book Easy Birthstone Jewelry. I love the fun, colorful layout. The book features 38 projects: 25 from the pages of our sister publication, BeadStyle, and 13 all-new projects. The book is divided into 13 sections, highlighting the primary and secondary birthstones of each month, and includes two additional projects that mix and match stones. Most of the projects require only stringing and basic wire-working skills, making them fast, easy, and great for gifts.

I helped get this project started before I came to work at Bead&Button, and my favorite part of the book is the information on gemstones. Did you know that, aside from color, rubies and sapphires are the same stone? That aquamarine is believed to bring eternal youth and good luck to those who wear it? It was fun to research the different gemstones and find out about their physical properties and the beliefs and lore surrounding them. I always love learning more about my materials.

When you look for a book or magazine, what catches your eye? Clear instructions? Great photos? Information on materials or techniques?

If you're interested in ordering the book, you can find it in our online catalog.