The pattern for this necklace is called "Chain-mail." Its origin dates back to medieval times. Using this same pattern, tunics were constructed of metal. Knights wore the tunics under their suits of armor, providing nearly impenetrable protection.

• The necklace and earrings are constructed from  18-gauge round wire.

• I  begin with a length of sterling or gold wire and wrap it tightly around a mandrel ( a metal spindle that serves  as a core around which material can be bent).     

• I place the wire -wound   mandrel in a vise to hold it firmly. Then, taking a jeweler's saw, I cut through the wire down the entire length of  the mandrel. Thus, numerous individual links called  " jump rings" are formed.

   

• Using the traditional chain-mail pattern in my own contemporary designs, I pick up my pliers to begin the time-consuming task of linking the hundreds of jump rings to create a distinct piece of art.

   

• The final stage involves buffing in the same manner in which rocks are polished. The finished chain is put in a tumbler  in order to make sure all areas of the metal are equally polished.