Is My Wire Necklace Design Practical?

by Rose Cooper.
(Maryland)

Wire Vine Necklace

I have been making 22 g artistic wire Swarovski & Wire Vine necklaces and sold some at craft shows. A friend who is a partner in a very upscale art gallery/shop said she thought they would sell well there. She did not think they were too delicate.

We agreed that precious metals would be best for their clientele. I am thinking gold filled for some and argentium for others. (Tarnish would be a huge bother for my airy pieces .)

My issue is “sturdy-ness”. My peices work harden as I shape and will certainly do so more with precious metals, and they do hold their shape well as a whole, but I am petrified that someone will wear it and hold a squirmy baby who will yank it out of shape, or will crush it under a heavy handbag strap.

Am I being paranoid? How can I strengthen my wire work so it will hold up over time? Can it be sold as ‘wearable art’ with the idea that it is delicate and not to be worn 24/7?

Though the photos are not the best, the pieces are striking in person. I love making these but I fear they are not practical.

Rose Cooper