Vintage filigree aesthetics in contemporary rings
Over the past few years, there has been a huge increase in the demand for antique jewellery designs, and this is especially true for engagement or marriage bands. And since thin, graceful filigree is one of the components of such vintage products, this word is increasingly being heard. FJewellery blog specialists decided to delve into the history of this beautiful decor and tell it to you. We also made a selection of the most unusual and popular models of rings where this technique is used. Let's explore this unique area of jewellery craft together!
Filigree - what does it mean?
This jewellery term is used as a description of any delicate and complex ornament that is made of noble metal. This is a technique where openwork metal knitting is used, which is soldered on top of the finished base of the product. To create filigree, the finest precious threads are used, which are folded into fancy patterns with a bias towards floral motifs. Any type of metal can be used:
The composition of the alloy practically doesn't affect the quality of the filigree ornament; however, gold is still the most popular option. It's quite affordable, and the jewellers adore it for the ability to change the strength and colour of the alloy, which gives more room for creativity.
Some people like to draw parallels between filigree and engraving - they say similar motifs are used and ornaments repeat each other. This is a fundamentally wrong statement, since these two techniques are completely different and the process of their creation is fundamentally different. Filigree patterns are created separately, and then soldered to an already finished metal base. This decor turns out to be voluminous and very openwork, it's superimposed on top of the decoration along with precious inserts.
Engraving is performed using a different way - with the help of a manual or mechanical tool, in-depth inscriptions and drawings are made on metal. The point is that it looks flatter and is done on the surface of a finished product. Both techniques require high skill from the jeweller, and accessories with them turn out to be insanely beautiful, but it's incorrect to compare them.
History of precious filigree
There are two Latin words that formed the basis of this term:
- filum, which translates into English as a thread or wire - which is the very essence of this technique.
- granum in translation means grain or seed - which is a concept.
This is one of the oldest and most beautiful metalworking techniques and the first mention of it's found among the masters of Ancient Egypt. It was there, during the excavations, that magnificent examples of filigree jewellery were found and this was the first such find in history. In addition to Egypt, similar ancient filigree decorations were also found on the territory of Mesopotamia - unique examples of the finest jewellery art of those times.
Later, thanks to the flourishing of international trade, this technique appeared in other cultures and was highly appreciated by the Greeks, Indians, Phoenicians and others. In the historical period from the 8th to the 9th centuries BC, filigree art was widespread in the lands of the Scythians. Local craftsmen created unique animalistic patterns from thin precious wire - such ornaments were their distinctive feature and were not used in any other culture. They decorated household items and armor with them, including magnificent golden pectorals.
Over time, the masters developed and improved it, adding new elements and complicating the patterns. In the Middle Ages, the Catholic Church was the main customer for European filigree masters. To decorate cathedrals and conduct divine services, they created the most beautiful cult objects, among which were:
- golden crosses,
- reliquaries,
- censers,
- worship bowls
- and so forth.
The popularity of filigree peaked during the Renaissance and this technique had a huge impact on the development of many artistic styles and jewel concepts. This is especially evident in products created on the basis of styles Art Nouveau and chic Art Deco.
Very delicate floral patterns, marine themes, fancy motifs, celtic ornaments - all this is closely intertwined in filigree accessories and is the perfect base for vintage-style jewels.
Unique openwork rings for proposal or wedding
Thanks to the resurgent demand for filigree, more and more couples are choosing such vintage models as their most important accessory. And if you are also interested in this unique technique - you can look into the FJewellery catalogue and pick up a filigree ring for yourself at the best price! We will help with the choice of suitable sizes and tell you about all the nuances of selection.
We've also prepared some original tips to help you find the flawless ring with luxurious filigree.
- Gold is the ideal material for engagement rings - it's practical and well-suited for regular wear. However, if you want variety, then try to look at items made of silver or even platinum. The latter metal is quite high in cost, but this one has the same vintage charm, which has been described so much. Of course, silver also looks great with the filigree technique, especially if you choose a model with blackening. And its price is much more affordable, but it's still not the most reliable metal for every day. In any case, try to choose an accessory in accordance with other elements of your precious collection, and then it will be as harmonious as possible.
- For a filigree band, you should pick up some special stone that will have sacred meaning and value for you. It's best to select a gem by the date of your birth. If the accessory that you give as an engagement gift or jewellery with which you take an oath in front of the altar is decorated with your connected birthstones - this is very symbolic and cute! In addition, unusual coloured gemstones look very original in combination with fancy filigree designs.
- Regarding stones, it's also worth noting that you shouldn't look for jewels with the largest possible gem - a big chic diamond is, of course, magnificent, but it may well outshine the beauty of a graceful ornament. Don't focus on the large central element - if the golden filigree is surrounded by a scattering of sparkling crystals, they will additionally emphasise its brilliance and will look just magical!
- Lastly, if you want to get a truly rare vintage jewel, we advise you to take a look at our assortment of pre-owned rings, where you can find really very exclusive and ancient models. Contemporary pieces are beautiful, but this sophisticated aesthetic of antique filigree is only found among vintage decorations!
If you still have questions - write to the FJewellery managers in the chat and any of your problems will be solved in a matter of minutes! And don't forget to follow our boutique blog for more interesting facts and articles! Welcome!