In this post, I will discuss how to incorporate cabochons and rivolis into your beaded work.

What are cabochons and rivolis?

A cabochon is a certain cut of gemstone or other material such as glass that is flat on one side and domed on the other. It is usually polished as opposed to faceted.

A rivoli is a crystal rhinestone that is faceted both on the top and bottom.

Cabochons and rivolis share one characteristic and that is they both do not have any holes drilled into them. This means you can not work with them in the typical manner.

So How To Use Them?

Wire-wrapping is one technique commonly used for cabochons but there are several ways to bead-stitch around both the cabochons and rivolis to securely hold them in place.

Click here to learn how to peyote stitch around a rivoli to create a bezel. A bezel is the rim which encompasses and fastens an object, which in this case is the rivoli or cabochon.

Right-angle weave (RAW) and netting stitch can also be used to capture a cabochon or rivoli. Each technique has its benefits. RAW is useful for cabochons with thick edges and netted bezels give old-world glamour to the finished piece.

Here is a free Beading Daily e-book called All About Cabochon Stones: Guide to Cabochon Settings and 5 Free Patterns using Cabochon for Jewelry Making. You may need to create a free account in order to access this e-book.

Using Beaded Bezels

Beaded bezels made with cabochons and rivolis can be used in many ways to make jewelry. Use single ones as pendants and earrings or you can link them to create gorgeous necklaces and bracelets.

Try playing with the sizes and link various sizes together for a more elegant look. However, you decide to use them, they can make quick and simple projects when you learn the techniques.