Blister Pearl Jewelry
Q.Does anyone know whre I can find more information about Pearling in Medieval europe I already have the Following books The Book of the Pearl by George F Kinz, The Pearl By sylvia malaguzzi The Book of Pearls by Joan Younger Dickinson Pearls a Natural History. Neil Landman. Pearls, Beyond Price and The Scottish pearl in its world Context... I am looking for more specific informatiuon about pearling in europe in places like England, France, Denmar, Germany(ia) and Russia.. but not limited to these regions.... I am also seeking better information about the medieval pearl trade and the ME.. as well as the Far east
A.Once the pearl is pierced, there are a lot of ways to mount it. One way used in the Medieval period was to mount the pearl on a pin, then seal the outside end of the pin with a cap/knot. This is basically a drop of whatever metal you're using for the piece, though it might be interesting to use something different. An example from the 10th-14rh centuries of pierced pearls knotted on rods is here: http://www.culture.gr/2/22/225/22501/225013/e013273.html As you can see, it's rather crude looking, but interesting in its own way. [The more modern look of free-floating pearls is achieved by drilling only half-way through the pearl, then mounting it on a shorter rod using a strong epoxy to hold the pearl in place.] Stringing pearl, or sewing it onto fabric are obvious choices, too. Pearls (especially blister pearls) are also a natural shape for bezel-setting along with other stones en cabochon. There are many, many examples (and how-to's) of this technique. Assuming that you're actually planning to make something that involves drilled pearls (more tedious, but probably easier than bezel settings), there are a number of forums available that discuss bead-work projects. The more elaborate the project, the more likely it is that you'll want to use pre-drilled pearls. Be aware that, since a pearl's value is partially determined by its weight, the holes in pre-drilled pearls are very small. You will probably find a selection of pearl reamers very useful. Also, even though the pearl drill looks clumsy, don't use a modern twist drill instead. It will damage the surface of the pearl.
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