World Gold Council trend report: Goldsmiths reach new heights of innovation with ‘fabric-style’ jewellery

One of the notable designs slowly making their way into the mainstream is ‘fabric-style’ gold jewellery – a breakthrough in artistry and craftsmanship that redefine the overall concept of adornment itself.

‘Fabric-style gold jewellery’ – so called for having acquired the unique qualities of a luxurious fabric -- challenges traditional notions one has of the precious metal.

By marrying traditional methods and modern technologies, goldsmiths have created a highly versatile material that gives way to delicate, lightweight and graceful pieces which would have been inconceivable only a few years back. The result is gold jewellery that is dramatic, sensual and highly expressive.

The versatility of this type of gold jewellery is a major advantage for the contemporary lifestyle.

Its fine finish and soft texture allows the wearer to achieve different looks with a single piece.

Necklaces, bracelets, earrings and accessories in fabric-style exude movement and fluidity not seen in traditional gold creations, thus creating a special relationship with their wearer.

Lama Al Saheb, PR Manager of World Gold Council explains: “Fabric-style jewellery opens up endless possibilities for the use of gold in adornment. Here is a clear demonstration of the versatility of gold which through the hands of expert craftsmen has led us to a new paradigm in design. Gold can actually achieve properties it does not possess in its raw, pure form and it is always a challenge amongst jewellers to put this unique characteristic of gold to good use”.

The idea is not new, however. The gold mesh that is now appreciated for its decorative appeal finds affinity to the ‘hauberk’ which was used as the main body protection of knights during battles in ancient times.

However, the technologies involved in creating the mesh were refined by today’s goldsmiths to a standard that make it suitable for adornment.

The intricate 'fabric-style' workmanship is usually the result of patented research carried out by individual companies. Gold wires are intertwined, knotted and twisted to come up with flowing mesh that becomes the base of the jewellery.

The special method, which requires very close attention to detail and long working hours, makes use of yellow, rose and white gold or their combinations, giving the jewellery piece depth and a richer look.

In some instances, fabric-style is showcased with other techniques such as hand finishing and enamelwork to produce ultra modern pieces further reinforcing the versatility of the yellow metal.

The flexibility and softness of pieces done in fabric-style creates special a bond with its wearer.

It is one type of jewellery that leads and inspires fashion, and not the other way around.

Thus, it has given way to a glamorous and luxurious array of pieces that integrates
the total look and provides the all-important accent to an outfit.

“The challenge has always been to create jewellery that defies expectations and here is proof that innovation is only limited by one’s imagination. Design has always been regarded as an important aspect of the gold jewellery industry and as it emerges as a top consideration of consumers in buying jewellery, it becomes imperative for the industry to come up with unique and memorable designs. We see fabric-style workmanship further blossoming to produce even more creative gold jewellery pieces in years to come,” Al Saheb elaborates.