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Lace making has been an art form for centuries. Incorporating intricate designs, and created with the finest of threads, lace making was a labor of love. From small cottage style industries up to the high fashion houses in Italy and France, lace making was actively supporting the wealthiest of clients. Upper class women often made their own lace as a pastime, as they were still in a time when idle hands were considered unacceptable behavior. Lace dates back to around 2000 BC, but it was the Elizabethan period of the 1500’s that really brought lace making to its height.

Delicate lace-like medallions are the focal point of this lovely necklace. The graduating series of Herringbone medallions are linked together with beaded chain to create a light and airy design. The center medallion supports a beaded drop that starts with a Brick stitch ladder then moves into Herringbone for the finished edging. Two toggles link the last medallion to form a double closure.

Photos by Mark Rutledge