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- Step-by-step instructions
- How-to photography
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Getting Started
Select an amphora shape (inspired from the classic Greek vase) to use as your central pendant. Look for shapes in design books, sketch out ideas, or simply start with a concept and see what happens with the wire as you work. The designs discussed in this project are all based on a pointed bottom.
The delicate lines of wire will connect the two sides of the amphora shape. The wires add beauty, and their tension also contributes both shape and structure.
To make a taller or curvier form, use chain-nose pliers to fold the wires back from each other so that you can wrap them around another object. If you decide to make a large, more ornate shape, you’ll need to begin with a longer piece of wire. Make smaller or larger versions; try oxidizing the wire or keeping it shiny; or mix it up by using multiple wire colors for the wraps.
Skill Level
- Advanced
Materials for the Necklace
- 20-gauge half-hard sterling silver wire, 6" (15.2 cm)
- 26-gauge sterling silver wire, 12" (30.5 cm)
- Sterling silver link chain with clasp, 16" (40.6 cm) or any desired length
- 24-gauge half-hard sterling silver wire for bead links
- Semiprecious stone, glass, or pearl beads to fit on 26-gauge wire (2 to 3 mm beads are best for the pendant, but you can use larger ones for the chain links)
Materials for the Earrings
- 20-gauge half-hard sterling silver wire, two 6" (15.2 cm) pieces
- 26-gauge sterling silver wire, 24" (61 cm)
- Several 2 to 3 mm semiprecious stone, glass, or pearl beads
Tools & Supplies
- Jeweler’s wire cutters
- Chain-nose pliers
- Round-nose pliers
- Simple wrapping forms
- Fine-point permanent marker
- Large marker or dowel
- Planishing hammer
- Steel block
- Burnisher
- Liver of sulfur
| Copyright © 2007 Kathleen Ann Frey | Acknowledgments & Disclaimer |
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