Total Wire
2.9 ft
Weight
0.19 oz
Spools
1
Est. Cost
$3.48
0.812 mm diameter
| AWG | mm | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 14 ga | 1.628 mm | Heavy bangles, clasps |
| 16 ga | 1.291 mm | Bangles, ear wires |
| 18 ga | 1.024 mm | Ear wires, jump rings |
| 20 ga | 0.812 mm | Jump rings, wrapping |
| 22 ga | 0.644 mm | Wrapping, chain mail |
| 24 ga | 0.511 mm | Fine wrapping, crochet |
| 26 ga | 0.405 mm | Weaving, coiling |
| 28 ga | 0.321 mm | Delicate weaving |
Inputs
Result
Wire per ring = π × 6mm / 25.4 + 1" = 0.74 + 1.0 = 1.74". Total = 1.74 × 20 = 34.8" = 2.9 ft. At $1.20/ft for 20 AWG sterling: $3.48. Weight = 2.9 × 0.064 = 0.19 oz.
Inputs
Result
Wire per link = (π × 8mm / 25.4) × 1.5 + 0.5" = 1.48 + 0.5 = 1.98". Total = 1.98 × 50 = 99.1" = 8.3 ft. At $0.20/ft for 18 AWG copper: $1.65.
The most versatile gauges for jewelry are 20 and 22 AWG. Use 18–20 gauge for structural components like jump rings, ear wires, and clasps. Use 22–26 gauge for wire wrapping, weaving, and decorative coiling. Heavier 14–16 gauge works for bangles and thick statement pieces.
| AWG | Diameter | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|
| 14 ga | 1.63 mm | Bangles, heavy clasps |
| 18 ga | 1.02 mm | Ear wires, jump rings |
| 20 ga | 0.81 mm | Jump rings, headpins |
| 22 ga | 0.64 mm | Wrapping, chain mail |
| 26 ga | 0.41 mm | Fine weaving, coiling |
Wire per jump ring = circumference (π × diameter) + 1 inch for overlap. For 6mm jump rings, each ring needs about 0.74 + 1 = 1.74 inches of wire. For 100 rings, you need about 174 inches (14.5 feet) of wire.
Costs vary dramatically by material. Copper wire costs $0.03–$0.45/ft depending on gauge. Sterling silver runs $0.28–$4.20/ft. Gold-filled is the most expensive at $0.42–$6.50/ft. Practice with copper before cutting into precious metals.
| Material | 20 ga/ft | 18 ga/ft | 14 ga/ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copper | $0.13 | $0.20 | $0.45 |
| Brass | $0.15 | $0.24 | $0.55 |
| Sterling Silver | $1.20 | $1.90 | $4.20 |
| Gold-Filled | $1.85 | $2.90 | $6.50 |
Dead-soft wire bends easily with fingers and is best for wrapping, weaving, and intricate designs. Half-hard wire has more spring and holds its shape, making it ideal for ear wires, clasps, and structural elements that need to resist bending.
AWG (American Wire Gauge) and millimeters have an inverse relationship: higher gauge numbers mean thinner wire. Common conversions: 14 AWG = 1.63 mm, 18 AWG = 1.02 mm, 20 AWG = 0.81 mm, 22 AWG = 0.64 mm, 26 AWG = 0.41 mm.
Standard spools hold 25 feet of wire. Calculate total wire needed and divide by 25 to get spool count. For 100 jump rings at 6mm, you need about 14.5 feet (1 spool). Buying larger spools (100 ft) saves 20–30% per foot.
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Last Updated: Mar 9, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.