Dictionary: F

Figaro is a style of curb chain that uses both large and small links to make the chain.  The links are twisted in the curb style so that the chain will lie flat. 

View a variety of chains here.

A figure 8 connector is a wire component made of two loops side-by-side.  The resulting component is in the shape of the number 8.  It can be used to connect wire components, one in each loop. 

View instructions on making Figure 8 connectors here.

A finding is a jewelry making component, frequently made of metal.   Ear wires, head pins, eye pins and clasps are examples of findings. 

View our selection of findings here.

Fine Step Jaw Pliers are a type of step jaw pliers made specifically to work with the WigJig family of tools.  The smallest step in these pliers makes a loop the size of the pegs for the WigJig Delphi, Cyclops or Centaur.  The second step in these pliers makes a loop the size of the pegs for the WigJig Olympus, Olympus-Lite or Electra.  The largest step makes a loop 9/64" in diameter.  Because these pliers have a flat jaw in addition to the round, stepped jaw, they do not mark the wire. 

View these pliers here.

Fire polishing is a less expensive way of polishing cut glass.  In this process, heat is used to smooth the outer surface of the cut glass.  In general, fire polished beads are faceted.  Many fire polished beads are made in the Czech Republic. 

View fire-polished beads here.

A flush cutter cuts wire leaving one side of the cut flush (or flat) and the other side sharp (or pointed).  A conventional cutter will cut the wire leaving both sides semi-sharp.  One side of the jaws on a flush cutter is flat, the opposite side is beveled. 

View cutters here.

Also called a shepherd's hook, this ear wire finding is shaped as shown. 

View French-style ear wires here.