DIY Gold-Dipped Crystal Earrings & Pendant Tutorial - Jamie B Hannigan

A long time ago, I did a tutorial for raw gold-dipped gems. This tutorial was inspired by that, but a little more advanced. I purposely applied the gold leaf over the wire to give it a rustic, earthy look, but if you want it smoother, apply the gold leaf before wire wrapping.

To make these earrings and pendant you will need:

• 3 quartz crystal points (1 larger, 2 as close to the same as possible)

• 24 ga. gold wire

• Gold leaf

• Gold leaf adhesive

• Gold leaf sealer

• Paintbrushes

• Round nose pliers

• Wire cutters

• 2 earrings hooks

• Necklace chain

DIY Gold-Dipped Crystal Earrings & Pendant Tutorial - Step 1 - Jamie B Hannigan

Begin by cutting about 5-6″ of gold wire for each crystal. Wrap the wire around the top of the gem, tucking one end under while you wrap. Create a wrapped loop at the top of the crystal, then thread the wire down the opposite side and tuck. Trim the excess and tuck more if necessary. Test your wrap by holding the loop at the top to make sure the crystal doesn’t fall out.

DIY Gold-Dipped Crystal Earrings & Pendant Tutorial - Step 2 - Jamie B Hannigan

Once all three crystals are wrapped, coat the wire and the top portion with a thin layer of gold leaf adhesive. Let it dry for about 30 minutes to become tacky.

DIY Gold-Dipped Crystal Earrings & Pendant Tutorial - Step 3 - Jamie B Hannigan

Using a soft, dry paintbrush, gently press a piece of gold leaf onto the crystal where you applied the adhesive. Use the dry paintbrush to dust off excess leaf that doesn’t stick. If you have any bare spots, reapply adhesive and repeat.

DIY Gold-Dipped Crystal Earrings & Pendant Tutorial - Step 4 - Jamie B Hannigan

Coat all the gold leaf with gold leaf sealer. Don’t worry if it looks thick or white. It will dry clear. The sealer will also assist in making sure your wire wrapping is secure. Allow to dry.

DIY Gold-Dipped Crystal Earrings & Pendant Tutorial - Step 5 - Jamie B Hannigan

Open two earrings hook loops and thread the smaller crystals onto the earrings. Close the loops. Thread a necklace chain through the loop on the larger crystal pendant.

DIY Gold-Dipped Crystal Earrings & Pendant Tutorial - Finished Pendant and Earrings - Jamie B Hannigan

Done!