A Brief History of Crochet ..
… and its Evolution into Modern Wire Crochet Jewellery
Crochet has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. It has evolved in remarkable ways from its humble origins as a simple crafting technique to a highly versatile art form. Its modern applications in textiles and art incorporate traditional items like blankets and clothing, but it has also found a place in high end fashion and unique handmade jewellery. Let’s take a journey through the history of crochet and explore how it continues to inspire creativity in the modern world.
Where did it all start?
The history of crochet is somewhat mysterious, as there are no definitive records pointing where or when it was first developed. The word "crochet" is derived from the French term meaning “hook”. The craft is thought to have its roots in various cultures across Europe, mostly in lace making, and in Asia in Chinese needlework.
Crochet-like techniques started appearing in European textiles in the 16th century, but the craft gained real popularity in the early 19th century, especially in Ireland and France, where it became a way of creating decorative lace. Irish crochet became a crucial source of income during the Great Irish Famine in the 1840’s, when women crocheted lace to sell and support their families.
As crochet became better known, it began to be associated with status, elegance and refinement. Even Queen Victoria of England learnt to crochet and publicly endorsed the art of crochet using fine threads and materials. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, crochet had become a mainstay in home décor and fashion, with patterns published in magazines and books for everyone to enjoy and thus spreading the craft across the globe.
In the 20th century crochet evolved far beyond its traditional uses. In the 1960ss and 1970s, crochet enjoyed a resurgence as part of a bohemian fashion movement, offering colourful handmade crochet clothing items symbolising free spirited artistic expression. Crochet tops, accessories and granny square blankets became very popular, reflecting the emphasis of individuality and creative style particular to that era.
The 21st century brought further evolution of the craft, no longer limited to blankets, clothing, or home décor, the art of crochet took on an even more creative and avant-garde role by finding its way into fashion on runways and unique jewellery.
One of the most intriguing modern developments of the craft has been the introduction of wire crochet jewellery. This technique combines an ancient craft with contemporary high-end fashion by using metal wires and luxurious embellishments to achieve impressive, and sometimes dramatic results.
An example of the evolution of crochet, being used to create a multiple strand wire crochet Necklace
What is special about Wire Crochet Jewellery?
Wire crochet jewellery offers a sophisticated and artistic alternative to traditional jewellery. Instead of using yarn or thread as a crochet material, artisans use thin, flexible metal wires - such as silver-plated copper, gold-plated copper, and even sterling or fine silver wire. This shift in material allows for the creation of structurally complex and visually stunning pieces that maintain the intricate beauty of crochet lace. The combination of ethereal crochet patterns with the sleekness and sparkle of metal wire creates wearable art statement pieces. Necklaces, earrings, and bracelets crafted using this technique can be bold and striking or subtle and elegant, making them perfect for a wide range of occasions.
In summary, wire crochet jewellery has become a popular modern fashion item based on its unique aesthetic appeal, its durability and ability to hold its shape beautifully, its versatility offering subtlety or boldness and the appeal of owning a meticulously handcrafted, truly one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery showcasing the artisan’s skill and dedication.
The use of Embellishments
Whilst the choice of the wire used is crucial in the design of the piece of jewellery, the embellishments add luxurious components to make each piece a work of art and a conversation starter.
The most favoured components used in our collection are:
· Swarovski and Czech Crystals – they add a brilliant sparkle which elevates a casual piece to statement-worthy. Swarovski crystals are known for their precision-cut facets, while Czech crystals offer beautiful, high quality colours
· Pearls – Swarovski pearls and cultured pearls have a timeless elegance and lustre and offer a classic and sophisticated finish
· Gemstones and Lampwork Beads, such as Murano Glass beads, infuse each piece with unique textures and colours
What does the future hold for Wire Crochet Jewellery?
It would seem that crochet continues to inspire and evolve, with new techniques and applications constantly emerging while offering endless possibilities for innovation. It is a timeless craft that connects people to its rich history, bridges generations and as more people embrace the meditative and rewarding process of crocheting, the future for this age-old art form looks very bright. It’s never too late to learn to work that “hook” and who knows, you may discover that there is a unique piece of wire crochet jewellery just waiting to be made.
Explore our collection of handmade wire crochet jewellery and see how this traditional craft can bring elegance and artistry to your everyday style.