Chains
When it arrives at jewelry making, there is more to jewelry chains rather than just hanging pendants off them. Chains are used as an integral part of jewelry. In many inspirational jewelry designs, chains have been used an essential component of jewelry. If you decide to use chains, you will also find that there is an entire plethora of chain types. So getting acquainted with some of them will go a long way in helping you to find and purchase just what you want.
A typical chain is considered to be a series of linked loops of metal wire. At times, connected discs or balls instead of loops are utilized for the chain links.
Earlier artisans used to prepare fashion chains by hand. Today, still some of the chains are handmade. But making chains by hand is a labor intensive and an expensive process. Each link should be shaped individually, attached to the next link, and soldered shut. Though, the advantage is that the designers can make unique chains with intricately patterned links in unusual abstract shapes. However, most of the chains nowadays are machine-made.
Heavy gold neck chains worn with or without pendants have been in style throughout the history, particularly in Victorian and Renaissance eras. These days, neck chains with various link styles are obtainable in variety of standard lengths.
Additionally, chains are worn around the wrist in form of bracelets, often in a matching bracelet chain and neck chain ensemble. They normal length for a woman’s bracelet chain is roughly about 7.5 inches i.e. 19 centimeters.
Popular chain styles
The curb chain is considered to be a jewelry store staple. Attractive and sturdy, curb chains often form the links of usual men’s and women’s identification bracelets. The curb chain styles comprises of oval links which are twisted around 85 degrees and then are flattened so that the chain lies flat. Curb chains are strong but though flexible and they are simple to repair.
The Figaro chain is one of the fashionable versions of the curb chain. Principal links of the Figaro chains are extended between every pair of long links in a set of three short links. The term Figaro can also refer to other styles of chain that comprise one long link followed by a definite number of short links in a repeating pattern.
Rope chains are considered to be classics which provide an opulent and substantial look, particularly in larger widths. These chains can be solid or empty. Solid ropes are strong chains for hanging charms and pendants. Rope chains are normally made up of oval links. More than two links are attached to each contiguous link. Sometimes small flat surfaces are applied to rope chain links for getting extra sparkle.
There are so many varieties of jewelry chains available that is difficult to describe about all of them. However that chains which looks best on your personality and makes you feel confident after wearing it, should be chosen.
This entry was posted on Saturday, November 8th, 2008 at 10:56 am and is filed under Jewellery By Type. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.