Jewelry Making Blog
History of Wire Jewelry
The use of jewelry as decorative accessories dates back thousands of years ago and still serves as a very popular means to express oneself and compliment an outfit. Precious gemstones, seashells, beads, and metallic articles were often used to display wealth or royalty, but as jewelry became more accessible, common, lower class individuals used these possessions as a form of currency or family heirlooms. Today, the quality of jewelry ranges from cost-efficient costume pieces to high-end items made with precious metals and stones. Technological and mechanical advancements have allowed for jewelry to become a very common part of society’s general wardrobe, regardless of social class or income.
Historically, the use of gold and copper to create these delicate works of art has been documented as early as 5000 BC. Over time, the design and purpose of jewelry have evolved and changed to meet the needs and desires of society, but this form of adornment has always been considered exquisite and refined. From the ancient Egyptian, animal-inspired ornaments to the classic spirals and agriculturally-influenced designs of the Mediterranean region, beautifully crafted jewelry has been respected, admired, and appreciated for many years.
It wasn’t until approximately 1600-2000 BC that thin strips were cut from thin, metal sheets so that these wires could be shaped into decorative designs otherwise known as filigree. The ancient record indicates that the Phoenician society may have been the first to practice this particular technique, but other Egyptian artifacts have been discovered at this same time point that shows the use of fine, wire-like designs.
Migration and trade were primarily responsible for spreading the idea of wire jewelry around the world, and even though there were plenty of time periods when other jewelry making techniques were more popular than the use of wire, this craft remained a very popular method for producing fine detail, flawless features, and exceptionally attractive works of art that were both sturdy and durable.
During the middle ages of approximately 1200-1500 AD, the use of metallic wire was very limited to practical objects, but many charms and adornments were fastened to other materials using this component.
The modern use of wire jewelry has become significantly more popular in just the last 100-150 years. The industrial revolution produced mechanical innovations that allowed for mass production of malleable wires in a variety of different constituents. Since this material has become so widely available at a very affordable price, the artistry and development of specific techniques, when it comes to wire jewelry, has flourished.
It takes a significant amount of practice, patience, and skill to shape and form this material into a beautiful work of art, but with an abundance of resources available, it’s much easier now to learn this technique than it was a few hundred years ago. It also helps that there are many hand tools and devices that help with the cutting and shaping of this material.
A thicker metal wire can be used to create stunning bangle bracelets, uniquely shaped pendants, immaculate finger rings, and intricate pairs of earrings. Thinner versions of wire are often used to add even finer detail and attach beads or stones to an existing metallic structure.
Although the trends and techniques associated with wire jewelry making have changed over thousands of years, incorporating this material into jewelry production has certainly made a significant impact on the use and wearing of accessories and adornments. It has opened doors to a more creative avenue of art and has allowed artists to design and construct more intricate pieces in a more cost efficient manner.
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