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Freshwater pearls are a trinket pot staple, and are often passed down through generations as a much-loved heirloom.

Necklace

1 Cut three lengths of beading wire, each 70cm. Thread each wire separately with a random selection of pearls, crystals and motherof- pearl nuggets. Fasten them securely in position by compressing a crimp bead on either side with a pair of flatnosed pliers.

2 Once all three strands have been beaded, check the final length and adjust if necessary. To finish one side, thread the three wires through a crimp bead, compress it with flat-nosed pliers and add a single pearl.

3 Thread all three wires up into the centre of an open silver calotte , add another crimp bead and compress it very firmly with the pliers. Cut off any excess wire and close the calotte gently around the crimp to secure.

4 Loop the protruding hook of the calotte through the lobster clasp and close it up with round-nosed pliers. Repeat for the other end of the necklace, this time with a closed ring instead of the clasp.

Earrings

1 Thread a selection of beads onto a long silver head pin. With a pair of roundnosed pliers, bend the wire above the top bead to form a right angle. Trim to 1cm with cutters.

2 Holding the tip of the strand in the jaws of the pliers, coil it back around onto itself to form a neat loop. Before closing fully, attach an ear wire, then secure. Repeat for the second earring.

Bracelet

1 Decide which size you require, then trim a length of elasticated nylon cord to 15cm longer than this measurement.

2 Thread the cord with a random sequence of pearls, crystals and motherof- pearl nuggets. To secure, tie tightly in a double knot.

3 For added security, depending on the size of the holes in the beads, feed the strand back through the pearls, knot again and trim the excess.

4 To finish, cut short lengths of white organza and blue satin ribbon then tie over the knot to completely cover the join.