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02/07/12

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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