Wire wrapped bangle bracelets by Don Hall, stones (left to right): onyx and red jasper found at Sycamore Creek, petrified wood, and yellow onyx
Linda Shanahan
Last month, we learned a little about wire woven bracelets and the materials and process used to make them. Another skill used to make wire bracelets is wrapping. Don Hall is a master, a creative genius, when it comes to designing intricate wire wrap patterns.
Wire wrapped bangle bracelets materials used: Don prefers Argentium 935 silver. Argentium silver is slower at tarnishing. Also used is 14/20 gold-filled wire, brass and copper wire.
Tools used: Chain-nose, flat nose, and stepped wire wrapping pliers and flush cutters; also a polishing cloth
To create a bangle bracelet, Don starts by locating the perfect rock. His rocks come from other states he has traveled or from rock shops, rock and gem shows, and some gifted from amazing friends. He cuts and polishes his stones in the SLRGS Club’s lapidary shops. The stone dictates shape and material to be used. In most bracelets, he uses 21-gauge square, 20-gauge half round, 18-gauge half round, and 14-gauge round wire. Don says, “Since I joined the club it’s been an amazing journey to create jewelry with rocks and wire.” Learn this process by joining and signing up for a class at the Sun Lakes Rock, Gem and Silver Club at www.slrgs.com.