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Jewelry Art
03/10/10
One of the hottest, and more creative, fashion jewelry trends is frame or "window"
jewelry. Although photo frame pendants have been around for centuries, there
is a new trend toward frame jewelry as art. Framed art jewelry typically features
a paper image encased in a metal frame, with a transparent cover (e.g., glass
or resin) to protect the artwork inside. These little frames make unique pendants,
charms, earrings drops, and bracelet links.
window stamp necklace
Framing techniques have been embraced by independent artisans as well as mass-producing
manufacturers. The least expensive, and likely lowest quality, "frame"
jewelry includes casual bracelets made up of square or rectangular "picture
tiles." Before buying a picture tile piece, be sure you know and are comfortable
with the materials used to construct the piece. For example, some may be made
of plastic or lightweight aluminum. Many are also "stretch" bracelets
strung on elastic that will wear and break over time.
Click here for some picture tile bracelets I found on eBay
ebay
Some of the highest quality and most unique frame jewelry is handcrafted by
independent designers and artisans. These pieces are higher priced, but the
increase in quality is usually well worth the expense.
Designer or artisan frame jewelry can be crafted in various ways. Some artisans
first create a frame out of sterling silver or silver plated base metal, then
insert the paper image and seal it over with a special, clear-drying resin.
This provides a frame with a relatively smooth, clean look.
window beach theme necklaces
Other artisans create frame jewelry with a more uneven, rustic look. Instead
of first creating the frame, they begin with the image and two small pieces
of glass. (Microscope slides are a popular choice.) They sandwich the image
between the pieces of glass, then create the frame using a stain glass technique.
Typically, this involves taping around the edges of the glass with a special
tape made of copper. The silver tone frame is then created by carefully covering
the copper tape with solder. Most artisans use lead-free solder, which is much
safer to wear against the skin than leaded solder. One fun aspect of the soldered
frames is their two-sidedness. This allows for two images and creates a reversible
pendant or charm.
Take a look at this UK web page devoted to "collage" microscope slide
pendants - it's an elaborate collage in itself!
art-e-zine collage pendants
Framed art pendants look very chic hung from a simple cord, string, or even
ribbon. They can be strung onto a beaded or metal link chain for a more detailed
look. One of the most striking frame jewelry looks is the multi-frame linked
bracelet. Of course, these bracelets are pricier than jewelry featuring only
one or two frames, given the extra time and effort needed to create all those
little frames.
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