“Hold me close, hold me tight, please don’t ever let me go” is the intro jewelry class final created in December 2022. It was a project intended to challenge the artist in design, process, and assembly. Each jump ring was created by hand: coiled around metal mandrels, cut with a jeweler’s saw, and pried open and closed with pliers. It features stone setting, pierce works, and patination to complement the chainmaille.
A lot can be said about a person based on the necklaces they wear. It speaks without words about how an individual wants to present themselves and what kind of personality they have. A dainty chain for someone quiet. A pearl necklace for someone classy and mature. A beaded necklace for someone who wants to have fun. A chainmaille choker for someone who wants to stand out.
It’s a statement piece.
Hold me close, hold me tight, please don't ever let me go | copper, verdigris patination, clear agate | 2022 | front view
Hold me close, hold me tight, please don't ever let me go | copper, verdigris patination, clear agate | 2022 | back view
Process Images
Final project to do list with flower sketches for potential piercework designs
Sketch of the choker
Clear agate and carnelians as possible stones for the pair pendants
Tapered end of the choker with clasp
Finished choker section, worn on the neck
Checking to see if the template of the choker is good featuring studio bestie
Template adjusted to accomodate curvature
Start of the very long process of making jump rings, cutting them, and assembling them to create the curvature of the choker
Finished pair bezel cups with floral pierceworks
Set clear agate with verdigris patina
Piercework shining through the clear agate when held up to the light