The roots of chainmail jewelry predate the 5th century, when it was used by the ancient Celts to make armour for the warriors of the time. The name "mail" is derived from the French word "maille", which comes from the Latin word "macula" which means, "mesh of a net".
Making armour consisted of linking iron or steel rings and then closing them by either pressing the ends together, welding them or riviting them into place. Rings were often stamped out of sheets of iron and then linked into alternating rows to form some of the patterns which can still be viewed in museums today.
Today chainmail is used to create beautiful and elegant jewelry for both men and women. Artisans often incorporate gems and beads into jewelry pieces and some still practice the art of making armour. There are several basic chainmail patterns most commonly used today.
Four-In-One Chainmail Pattern
This is the most common of all chainmail patterns seen in jewelry design today. The four-in-one pattern derives its name from the fact that the weave begins with four rings linked through one central one and the weave is continued by adding a center ring and two end rings to the preceding one. This pattern can be used for bracelets, anklets and necklaces and beads or crystals can be added for a decorative look. This weave lies flat to the skin giving it the appearance of a sheet. This pattern can be made into a wider strip by adding rows to the first strip completed.
Byzantine or Box Weave Pattern
The Byzantine pattern is one of the most durable and elegant weaves that can be used in making jewelry. This pattern is created by folding rings in on themselves and weaving through the middle of the chain which forms a box weave pattern. This weave is used extensively as a decorative accent or for creating stand alone pieces.
Spiral Pattern
The Spiral pattern is often used as a necklace or bracelet and can be woven to stand alone or as an accent on a larger piece of chainmaille. The spiral weave is also used extensively in conjunction with a woven pendant.
There are many sources for purchasing chainmaille supplies, such as Metal Designz, and the art can be learned at home by young and old alike. Homeschoolers often use basic chainmail jewelry making as an introduction to studies on medieval times.
Many resources are available to both beginner and advanced designers, such as CG Maille a website that offers patterns, advice, tutorials and mentorship through chats and forums.
Karrie Emms - As a single mother of two beautiful children, Colton (11) and Jesslynn (9) Karrie has a passion for writing that began at the tender age ...
