Embellishments in Wire Jewellery

In the previous blog, I explored the importance of selecting the right wire to create artistic handmade jewellery. In this article, I’ll delve into some of the embellishments I use in my collection. These elements enhance the charm and elevate the pizzazz of using wire as a medium, transforming each piece into a stunning work of art and beauty.

Adding embellishments creates endless possibilities in designing and creating statement pieces that are both captivating and inspirational. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of crystals, beads, semi-precious stones and more.

Crystals

If you take a peek at the collection, you will see that crystals are used to add a magical touch and glamour that is unmatched by other embellishments when it comes to sparkle. I use Swarovski crystals, Czech crystals and natural quartz in various pieces, depending on the result I am looking to achieve.

Swarovski Crystals, have a rich history dating back to 1895. Daniel Swarovski, a Czech-born jeweller who founded a company in Austria, invented a revolutionary electric cutting machine that cuts crystals with unparalleled precision to set new standard in the crystal industry. His dream was to create “diamond-like” sparkle using crystals and thereby making it possible for everyone to own a beautifully shimmering piece of jewellery. Therefore, Swarovski crystals are ideal for necklaces or earrings intended for evening wear, or if you are daring, wear them anytime.

Czech Crystals originate from the Bohemia Region (now part of the Czech Republic). This area is famous for its skilled glassmaking since the 13th century. By the 16th century, the local glassmakers developed advanced techniques for cutting and polishing glass to such a standard that it led to the rise of what became known as the Bohemian crystal. In the 20th century these crystals gained further prominence in the jewellery industry mostly due to their dazzling colours and timeless appeal. What they may lack in the number of facets, they certainly make up for in their offering a wider variety of vibrant colours.

Natural Quartz crystals are celebrated for their natural beauty and versatility. Known for their impressive clarity and range of colours, quartz crystals vary from being transparent and colourless to richly hued examples such as amethyst, citrine and rose quartz. In addition to their physical appearance, quartz crystals are believed to possess metaphysical qualities such as healing, balancing, and energy-amplifying effects. I love to use raw quartz crystals in my pieces as they offer extraordinary irregularities and texture providing a unique organic element while still adding stunning colour to my designs.

Gemstones

They are a classic choice in wire jewellery as they add vibrancy, texture as well as elegance. Gemstones come in various forms, each with its unique characteristics.

When crocheted into a necklace, semi-precious stones such as turquoise, tourmaline and aquamarine, to name but a few, add colour and elegance. They add a nature-inspired vibe and many people believe in the natural spiritual and healing properties they impart. Beyond their potential symbolism, I find semi-precious gemstones incredibly tactile and love incorporating both small chip stones and larger beads into my designs, adding texture and visual interest.

Faceted gemstones reflect light better than raw gemstones and add a touch of sophistication. They work beautifully in earrings and statement necklaces, catching the eye with every movement.

Raw or unpolished gemstones are one of my favourite types of gemstones. They have a beautiful organic look and feel to them and deliver a modern and edgy aesthetic to wire crochet jewellery pieces, thereby creating a bold statement.

Pearls

Pearls are a timeless embellishment adding sophistication and elegance to every type of wire crochet jewellery. I find their lustre quite mesmerising, and they effortlessly complement both modern designs and more classic, timeless pieces.

Freshwater pearls create a soft a feminine look. Baroque pearls, with their unique irregular shapes lend an organic feel to jewellery, whilst classic round pearls epitomise elegance and bring a more traditional and polished aesthetic. I often use Swarovski pearls for their consistent quality and shine in many of my designs, but have also started incorporating beautiful cultured pearls in some of my new creations.

Beads and Seed Beads

Beads are so versatile – I just love them. They offer endless possibilities in terms of colour, shape and material.

Some of my favourites in this category are Murano and other Lampwork beads, which are exquisite handmade glass beads that add a special touch to any piece. Depending on their colour and translucency, they can create either subtle or bold accents, perfect for adding a pop of colour or sparkle to necklaces and earrings.

They bring texture and detail, often resulting in a more elaborate look, as seen in designs like the Crimson & Quartz Pendant. Seed bead-adorned wire crochet earrings are also striking and stylish, making a bold statement.

In conclusion, I believe that embellishments in wire crochet jewellery elevate each piece into a true work of art, showcasing the creativity of handmade craftsmanship. Whether you’re drawn to sparkling crystals, the sophistication pearls or the natural beauty of gemstones, each piece of jewellery will tell its own story.

Here is an example of using Lampwork beads, freshwater pearls, various crystals and seed beads with silver plated copper wire, resulting in a lovely Statement piece called “Happy”.