With a little help from some filigree stampings create some statement chandelier earrings which will be the envy of all your girlfriends and worn on the red carpet today! YESSSS!
We are big fans of brass which imbues a relaxed opulence and evokes a classic glamour whilst delivering in spades in its eco style and wearability.
How are Brass Stampings Made?
Thin sheets of brass are imprinted or stamped with dies made by metal engravers to produce delicate charm and "metal lace", known as filigree cutouts.
How to Use Brass Stampings?
They can be used as:
- links (by themselves or with other findings and beads),
create a fringe of beads
create a cascade of beads
The History of Brass Stampings
Used predominately in the manufacture of couture jewellery in the 18 and 19th centuries, brass stampings have once again become extremely popular in contemporary jewellery from centre stage pendants, to eclectic charm bracelets and chandelier earrings. Many of the pieces we feature are still made from the original dies inspired by the Victorian period and created in the late 1800's. They were designed and made in France, Bohemia and Italy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The French philosopher Montaigne, in the 16th century discussed the desire “to put adornment within everybody’s reach”. Praising the work of the metalworkers, he revolutionised the wearing of jewellery, as it now became accessible not only to the privileged rich, but to the common people. Used predominately by the manufacture of couture jewellery in the 18 and 19th centuries, brass stampings have once again become extremely popular in eclectic charm bracelets and chokers. Use them with layers of chain and beads for a very contemporary look.
Brass Care
Over time raw brass will naturally oxidise or dull. You may like the antique patina it creates however if you want to bring the piece back to shiny simply use some lemon juice & gently scrub the surface with a toothbrush. This is the finish we use in all our vintage workshops as we love the old finish raw brass takes on over time. We recommend you do not leave raw brass in wet areas e.g. bathrooms or wear whilst in water.MAKE THESE SHOWSTOPPING EARRINGS
To make these gorgeous pair of statement earings we used the following elements which are all available on our online store or take some inspiration from this design and make and create your own jaw dropping, gab smacking statement pair of earrings:
- x2 38mm a large filigree raw brass doily embellished with a Swarovski diamante stone in peach and 1.5mm ball chain
- x12cm raw brass belcher chain ( you decide how long you want your earrings)
- x2 a large flatback stone set in a raw brass lace cup frame which was glued together. TIP: for best results use Araldite a two part epoxy glue
- x8 small oval jumprings to attach the chain to both the stone and the filigree
- x1pr continental hooks for pirced ears