Beading Glossary: Letter T

Another name for a toggle clasp.

Several fibers spun into a single strand. Beading thread is made of nylon and is used in beadweaving and loomwork. Other types of thread used in beading include decorative cords such as rattail.

A lightweight, gray-colored metal and an element in the periodic table. Titanium is corrosion resistant and very strong. It is inert (non-allergenic), and therefore often used in body jewelry. Titanium can be anodized to produce various colors. photo credit

A type of clasp consisting of a bar which fits into a loop. It operates on the same principle as a button. Toggle clasps tend to be bulky and therefore most appropriate for chunkier jewelry. This clasp is also sometimes used as a main decorative element in a necklace that clasps in the front. photo credit

The quality of allowing some but not all light through. Contrast with transparent and opaque.

Clear or see-through. The opposite of opaque, which cannot be seen through. Translucent is in between transparent and opaque.

1 troy oz = 1.097 oz. This unit of weight is traditionally used for gemstones and precious metals. Dates from the medieval period.

See charlotte beads.