Tuesday, 21st November 2006 (3982 views)

Ancient golden wire jewellery techniques are still being used in California despite fears over the possible loss of the unique skill.

Using golden wire to make jewellery can be traced back to ancient Egypt and involves the creation of thin strips of pure gold which are then rolled into wire. The process is very time-consuming but the results are amazing.

The art was briefly revived by the Victorians who appreciated the amount of work needed to produce a piece using the technique but only a few jewellery makers passed on the skill to future craftsmen and women.

However, the golden wire art is set to make a comeback in Pasadena, California due to the opening of a new jewellery store that specialises in the process. ElizaWire Jewelry Designs, founded by Elizabeth Smith, will offer customers a unique collection of prices produced using special sculptured wire rather than the standard wire wrapped technique.

Ms Smith, explained: "Wire wrapped jewellery is really only the technique that literally wraps a gemstone in place with little decoration or design, but sculpted wire design incorporates artistic twists and turns of the wire itself to make a unique design that will showcase the gemstone."

 

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