This is a beautifully intricate wire-wrapped pendant featuring a paisley design and sterling silver wire. Here’s a guide on how to create a similar design:
Materials:
- Wire:
- 18-gauge sterling silver wire for the frame
- 20-gauge sterling silver wire for support structure
- 26-gauge sterling silver wire for weaving and spirals
- Sterling silver chain for necklace
- Gemstone:
- Faceted blue topaz or London blue topaz (oval cut)
- Approximately 10x8mm size
- High clarity stone with good brilliance
- Tools:
- Wire cutters
- Round-nose pliers
- Flat-nose pliers
- Chain-nose pliers
- Nylon-jaw pliers
- Metal ruler or calipers
- Drawing template for paisley shape
- Optional:
- Wire straightener
- Polishing cloth
- Jeweler’s files
- Work surface pad
Steps:
- Create the Base Frame:
- Form paisley outline with 18-gauge wire
- Add internal support wires
- Create prongs for stone setting
- Ensure symmetrical shape
- Add Internal Framework:
- Create grid pattern with 20-gauge wire
- Form connection points for spirals
- Add structural support bars
- Maintain even spacing
- Create Spiral Elements:
- Form uniform spiral shapes
- Position symmetrically within frame
- Secure with wire wrapping
- Create balanced pattern
- Set the Stone:
- Position blue topaz in center
- Secure with prongs
- Add decorative wrapping around stone
- Ensure stone is stable
- Add Detail Work:
- Create small connecting spirals
- Add wire wrapping at intersections
- Form decorative binding points
- Balance visual elements
- Finishing Touches:
- Create secure bail for chain
- Polish all components
- Check all connections
- Attach to chain