I start with sterling silver wire, cut jump rings with my saw, and weave the rings one-by-one in the Byzantine chainmaille pattern. I finish the bracelet by tumble polishing to a high shine.
Chainmaille is the art of linking jump rings in a particular way to create various patterns. Many chainmaille patterns go by more than one name. The Byzantine pattern is also known as Birdcage, Fool's Dilemma, or Idiot's Box.
Earring is sterling silver.
About Chainmaille:
Chainmaille (also chainmail or chain mail) is the ancient art of linking small
metal rings in a pattern. "Maille" in French translates to
"net" or "mesh" and was originally used in creating armour.
Many different chainmaille patterns have emerged over time, and I use these same
patterns using silver, gold, and copper to create e-maille. I cut each jump ring
myself and then open, link, and close each ring individually using a pair of
pliers in each hand. Since each ring is free to move in the linked pattern, the
result is a strong piece of jewelry with a nice, fluid movement.
Have a favorite chainmaille pattern? Search
by Chainmaille Pattern here.
