Guest post tutorial by Jenny Hoople of Authentic Arts.
1. Make Your Own Jump Rings: Jump rings are the small wire circles you’ll attach to the stones to turn them into pendants. Wrap the copper wire tightly around a pen several times to form a coil, then slide the coil off the pen. Trim the excess wire from each end with the wire cutters, then cut across the middle of the coil to separate the spiraled wire into individual rings. If your pliers are too large to fit through the rings, bend one ring up at a time and snip it from the coil. If ring ends are sharp or rough, clean them with careful snipping to smooth them out.
2. Attach the River Rocks to the Rings: Hold one end of a jump ring with the pliers and twist it open slightly. Slip the ring through the drilled hole in the stone and then bend the ring back into place, closing it securely so the stone hangs from the ring.
3. Cut the Wire for the Choker: Experimenting with different choker lengths is part of the fun. For a starting length, cut a piece of wire about 20–21 inches (51–53 cm) long.
4. Form the Spiral Ends: Grip one end of the choker wire with the tip of the needle-nose pliers and wrap the wire around the pliers to form a decorative spiral. Repeat on the other end. These spirals add a finished look and can be used together as a simple clasp by interlocking them.
5. Bend the Wire Around to Form a Closed Circle: Curve the choker wire into a circular shape so the spiral ends meet. If both spirals face the same direction, rotate one slightly so they face opposite directions and interlock more easily.
6. Thread the Stone or Stones onto the Choker: Slip the jump-ring-attached stones onto the choker wire. One of the best things about this design is its versatility: you can add or remove stones to change the look and weight of the necklace whenever you like.
These river rock chokers are simple and affordable to make, yet they deliver a strong visual impact, making them ideal DIY gifts for holidays, birthdays, or any occasion when you want to give something handmade and distinctive.
About Jenny: Jenny Hoople creates natural stone and beaded gemstone jewelry that feels colorful, authentic, and personal. She lives near Madison, Wisconsin, and she loves mixing color combinations, supporting the handmade movement, and celebrating the simple, meaningful parts of life. Follow her work on social media or visit her blog for more projects and inspiration.
Thank you, Jenny, for sharing this project. If you enjoyed the tutorial, consider sharing it with friends or on your social channels to spread the inspiration.