Description
For this Tudor necklace, I took inspiration from the styles, materials and colouring of the Tudor era. Of course, the Swarovski centrepiece would have been an expensive gem. But you can’t have everything!
Materials
For this project, you will need:
- Size 11 delicas
- Freshwater pearls
- Swarovski Bicones
- Swarovski Stone
- Bead caps
- Clasp
- Your choice of beading thread
When you come to buy your beads, choose a colour scheme that starts with your Swarovski stone. So, you might go for a completely different colour to me. Tudor jewellery was characterised by all manner of precious gems. So, choose your favourite.
If you want some hints on colouring, try this blog.
Techniques and Experience
I used Peyote stitch and Right Angle Weave to create the cross that forms the focal for the Tudor necklace. The instructions do include clear steps and diagrams.
If you find you need a bit of extra tuition with any of the techniques, then you can get free tutorials from me at this link.
I created the necklace just by stringing. So, I would suggest this is a project for beaders who are already comfortable with the bead-weaving techniques.
About the Tudor Necklace
I created this design when I was asked to come up with some options for a ‘history’ themed issue of a magazine. Not content with just one idea, I also created a 1970s inspired Austin Powers necklace. The magazine editor decided to use the Austin Powers idea – it fitted better with the spread of historical eras in the issue!
This was actually some years before the BBC aired their wonderful drama, ‘Tudors’. I have to confess, I spend as much time admiring the jewellery worn by the cast as I do watching the drama! So, I feel I may have some more Tudor projects in me. Then there is all the Victorian jewellery… I think I just need to create my own ‘historical collection’. So, watch this space…!
