Silver Threads: Making Wire Filigree Jewelry

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 112 pages
• Published by: Kalmbach August 1, 2006
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0871162210
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0871162212
• Book Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.1 x 0.4 inches
• Weighs: 4.3 pounds

Book Description
Filigree is easier than it looks--with help from Silver Threads

* 12 gorgeous "you made this?" projects
* Step-by-step instructions and photographs introduce the basics and more advanced techniques

For thousands of years, cultures around the world have made filigree: delicate jewelry, decorative objects, even furniture. The intricate curls and twists mislead people into thinking that filigree is difficult to make--but its much easier than it looks, with help from Silver Threads. This book demystifies the process of creating filigree jewelry. First, basic silverworking techniques are paired with an overview of tools and materials. Then readers learn to make simple filigree shapes, used in 12 stunning projects ranging from simple pendants and earrings to more complex necklaces with gemstone settings. Detailed instructions, illustrations, and full-color photographs guide readers through the learning process--and into planning and creating their own unique filigree designs.

About The Author
Jeanne Rhodes-Moen lived in Norway for 14 years. During her time there, she learned traditional Norwegian filigree techniques and developed her own style; see it at her website, jeannius.com. She lives in Asheville, North Carolina.

Reader Reviews
"Patterns similar to filigree have been spotted in Viking jewelry as early as AD 800. Danish goldsmiths brought them back to Norway in the late 17th and early 18th centuries..." If you have always wanted to make your own jewelry or want to make and sell filigree jewelry, this book has all the information you need to get started. The first few pages take you through a wide variety of jewelry from many countries. The hinged purse necklace in the shape of a heart is fascinating as are the butterflies that look like stained glass. "Plique-à-jour is a variation on piercing where the pierced filigree is filled with transparent enamels. This technique produces the look of fine stained glass on a very small scale." ~ pg. 15 The tricky part of making this jewelry seems to be the removal of oxidation that forms during the heating process. The first chapter is essential to read more than once, maybe ten time...to make sure you know how to use the chemicals discussed. The author recommends you use Sparex - she says is in a granular form that can be added to hot water. Items needed to begin making jewelry include a torch, soldering surface, pliers, jeweler's saw, ring mandrel, hammers, files, dust collectors, tweezers, etc. These are all listed with pictures and more information. Project in this book include: Dangle Earrings Pendants Four-Leaf Clover Heart Pendant Swirl Ring Fan Dangle Necklace Winged Design (like on cover) Once you read how jewelry is made it gives you an even deeper respect for the artisans who accomplish such mastery over silver enhanced with gemstones. ~The Rebecca Review Comment | | (Report this)