Basic equipment you will need to get you started is:
1) Round Nose Pliers~used for bending wire and making loops. This will probably be the tool you'll use most.
2) Wire or Side Cutters~used to cut stringing material and light gauge wire.
3) Chain or Flat Nose Pliers~They are used for almost everything else, from holding your pieces to opening and closing chain links and jump rings.

 Useful tools to gradually add to your collection:
Crimping Pliers ~ designed for crimping beads.
Awl ~ tool used for knotting.
Bead Board ~ Bead boards have a curved groove with a measuring scale alongside with compartments in which the beads can be held while you work.
Beading Needles ~ needed when you are working with thin thread and tiny beads.
Tweezers
Scissors
Hammer
Glues
Ruler

Once completed, presentation is everything so why not get yourself the right kind of jewelry boxes, bags etc that will show off your art work at it's best. Ideal for selling or for gifts have a look at: Jewelry Boxes.


For a fool proof beginners guide have a look at:  How-To.

For more ideas on other forms of crafting such as Card-Making and Scrap-Booking check out my Blog