What is Wire Wrapping?
Wire Craft or “Wire Wrapping” is a jewelry design technique that will incorporate various gauges and hardness of wire. I use Sterling Silver, Argentium Silver, Copper, Gold and Gold-filled wire. I do not use craft wires (plated, aluminum, etc.) in my jewelry designs. Glue or solder are also not used. Stones are set or mounted within a setting strictly made of wire. Occasionally small, faceted stones are set within a prong setting that may or may not be made of wire.
This technique of jewelry design has been used for thousands of years. Wire crafted jewelry has gained popularity due to its uniqueness and artistic flair.
14/20 Gold-filled wire is not vermeil or plated. It is 1/20th 14 karat Gold overlay, which is heat and pressure bonded over either a Sterling or jewelers Brass core. It is tarnish resistant and the Gold will not wear off. Only 14 karat Gold touches the skin. Gold-filled jewelry is much more economical than 14 karat Gold. I also like to use Argentium Sterling, allowing for a piece that will not require as much polishing as Sterling Silver. Sterling Silver is a mixture of 92.5% pure Silver and 7.5% of other metals, usually Copper. Argentium contains a higher amount of pure Silver depending on its grade, generally 93.5% pure Silver, while the remaining is made up of other alloys, including Germanium. Germanium allows for 7% less tarnish and higher durability.
Care for your wire crafted jewelry should be the same as any other fine jewelry. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth or a mild jewelry cleaner. Be careful when storing your piece of jewelry so as not to bend or damage the wire in any way.