Step-by-step tutorial to create an Ammonite Wire-Wrapped Pendant

Materials Needed:

1. Fossilized Ammonite (or a similarly flat stone or cabochon).
2. Copper wire:
   • 18-gauge for the frame.
   • 26-gauge for weaving and detailing.
3. Jewelry tools:
   • Round-nose pliers.
   • Chain-nose pliers.
   • Wire cutters.
   • Nylon jaw pliers (optional, to straighten wires).
4. Ruler (to measure wire lengths).
5. Small Mandrel (or pen for shaping curves).
6. Polishing cloth (to clean the finished piece).

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Base Frame

1. Cut the base wire:
   • Take an 18-gauge wire, approximately 18 inches long.
   • Straighten the wire using nylon jaw pliers.
2. Shape the frame:
   • Wrap the wire around the ammonite to create a snug oval or circular frame. Leave about 3 inches of wire on each side for making swirls later.
   • Use your fingers and pliers to adjust the frame shape until it fits securely around the ammonite.

Step 2: Secure the Ammonite

1. Anchor the stone:
   • Use a 26-gauge wire (about 24 inches long). Start wrapping one end of the wire tightly around the frame.
   • Position the ammonite inside the frame and begin wrapping the 26-gauge wire across the top and bottom edges of the stone to hold it in place.
   • Secure the ends of the wire by tucking them neatly around the frame.

Step 3: Create Decorative Swirls

1. Form swirls:
   • Take the remaining 3-inch ends of the 18-gauge wire.
   • Use round-nose pliers to create elegant swirls at the bottom and top of the pendant.
   • These swirls not only enhance the design but also help secure the ammonite further.
2. Add detailing:
   • Use the 26-gauge wire to weave additional patterns between the swirls for an intricate look.

Step 4: Shape the Bail

1. Form the bail:
   • Bring the two top wires together above the ammonite.
   • Use round-nose pliers to create a small loop by bending both wires backward.
   • Wrap one wire tightly around the base of the loop several times to secure it.
2. Trim and tuck:
   • Trim the excess wire and use chain-nose pliers to tuck the ends neatly.

Step 5: Add Final Details

1. Optional enhancements:
   • Wrap smaller swirls or loops along the edges using the 26-gauge wire for added texture.
   • Attach small beads or gemstones to the swirls if desired.
2. Polish:
   • Use a polishing cloth to remove any tarnish or fingerprints from the copper wire.

Tips:

• Experiment with different wire colors (silver or gold) for variety.
• For extra security, use a small amount of jewelry adhesive to hold the ammonite in place before wrapping.
• Take your time with swirls to ensure they are smooth and evenly shaped.

Your Ammonite Wire-Wrapped Pendant is now complete! Let me know if you’d like a design variation or help with specific steps.