Wire Wrapped Stone Pendant Jewelry

Smooth, flat stones — about 1 to 2 inches across

Craft wire — 20 or 22 gauge (thin enough to bend easily, thick enough to hold shape)

Wire cutters

Round-nose pliers for making loops (optional but helpful)

Necklace cord, chain, or leather strip

Find a smooth, flat stone you love. Beach stones, river rocks, or polished stones from a craft store all work. The flatter the stone, the easier it is to wrap.

Cut about 24 inches of craft wire. This gives you plenty to work with.

Place the stone in the center of the wire. Wrap the wire around the stone horizontally, pulling it snug. Cross the wire ends in the back.

Bring both wire ends up to the top of the stone and twist them together two or three times to lock the stone in place.

Form a hanging loop at the top. Wrap one wire end around a pencil to create a small, round loop. Hold it in place.

Wrap the excess wire from both ends back down around the base of the loop and the top of the stone to secure everything. Tuck sharp ends in with pliers.

Thread the pendant onto a cord, chain, or leather strip. The length should allow it to hang at mid-chest.

Practice on a regular pebble first before wrapping your favorite stone. It takes a couple tries to get the tension right.

The wire needs to be tight against the stone. Loose wraps let the stone slip out. Snug wraps keep it secure.

Add decorative twists and spirals with the extra wire for a more elaborate design.

This technique works with sea glass, crystals, large beads, and shells too — anything with a shape the wire can grip.

Wire-wrapped pendants are a real jewelry-making technique used by professional artisans. Your child is learning a genuine craft skill.