What do you think is the easiest way to design a pendant?

Beadwork Pendant Design Idea

When designing a matching pendant for a pair of earrings, I follow several creative rules. These rules can also be applied to all jewelry sets.

My Pendant Design Rules

Rule #1

The pendant should be larger than a matching earring.

Rule #2

The pendant should have the same or larger focal point compared to the matching earrings.

Rule #3

Pendant might have a different focal point, but it must include all the elements of the earring.

Rule #4

Pendant must resemble the earring shape, or include the earring shape within the design.

Rule #5

Pendant design must overpower the matching pair of earrings.

Following these rules, you make all necessary creative decisions easily.

In my case, after making the heart-shaped earrings, I quickly came up with an idea how to adapt the earring element and form a pendant using it.

My Pendant Design Process

Step 1

I made five heart-shaped elements connecting each shape with a previous one as I beaded.

According to my Rule #1, pendant consisting of five earring elements will most certainly be larger than an earring. According to my Rule #3 and Rule #4, the pendant included the elements of the earring and repeated it within the design.

Step 2

I added smaller seed beads to improve the elements and add more details. I also added little freshwater pearls on the outside of the pendant.

Step 3

I attached the center freshwater pearl.

Freshwater pearls were not included in the earring design, but, according to my Rule #5, having them would enhance the design.

Step 4

I stitched a simple bail made from the seed beads I used in the pendant.

I listed no rules about bails because I think, it is a subject worthy of a separate discussion.

A post shared by Svetlana (@svetlanagallery) on Mar 14, 2018 at 2:56pm PDT

So, these are my rules and steps I follow when designing beaded pendants. Do you find them helpful or too constricting? Share your ideas and opinions in comments below!