This elegant wire-wrapped pendant features a unique geometric gemstone encased in a sleek and minimalist wireframe design. Here’s how you can recreate this pendant style:
Materials:
- Wire:
- 18-gauge wire for the frame.
- 24- or 26-gauge wire for securing and embellishments.
- Stone:
- A geometric gemstone or cabochon (e.g., a kite or shield shape).
- Tools:
- Wire cutters.
- Round-nose pliers.
- Flat-nose pliers.
- Nylon-jaw pliers (optional, to avoid marring the wire).
Steps:
- Measure the Stone:
- Position the gemstone and estimate the wire lengths needed to frame it securely.
- Cut two equal lengths of 18-gauge wire for the frame.
- Shape the Frame:
- Use the gemstone as a guide to bend each wire into a shape that hugs the stone snugly, leaving space for wire wraps.
- Cross the wires at the top to create a secure bail later.
- Wrap the Stone:
- Place the stone between the wires.
- Secure it by wrapping 24- or 26-gauge wire at key points (e.g., the corners or edges) to hold the stone in place.
- Form the Bail:
- At the top where the wires cross, twist the wires together and form a loop using round-nose pliers to create the bail.
- Wrap additional thin wire around the base of the bail for added stability and aesthetics.
- Add Decorative Elements:
- Add curves, spirals, or additional wraps to the wire frame for embellishment.
- Keep the design clean and balanced to highlight the geometric stone.
- Finishing Touches:
- Trim and tuck in any excess wire.
- Polish the piece to bring out the wire’s shine and smooth any rough edges.