By: Susanne Faulkner
Faulkner Sterling Design

Local jewelry designer Susanne Faulkner of Faulkner Sterling Design in Middletown, Delaware, reflected recently on her latest passion – exploring the creative possibilities of jewelry made with the ancient patterns and techniques of chain maille.

Chain maille is the art of linking small metal rings together in a set pattern. Today, patterns from as early as the first millennium B.C. have been adapted by jewelry makers to create beautiful bracelets, necklaces and earrings. Chain Maille jewelry is an artist’s delight. It is simple, yet complex, substantial but lightweight.

Those who love jewelry are adding a variety of chain maille designs to their collections. Many different metals are being brought into the design equation. Sterling silver, gold, and copper create ageless looks.

Unlike the heavy and clumsy chain maille of the Middle Ages, today’s designs draw on the artistry of the ancient patterns, and are simple, though intricate. Susanne adds touches that appeal to individual tastes by including beads, crystals, pearls, and her gorgeous handcrafted fine silver clasps, that are works of art by themselves. Building on evocative themes such as Byzantine, Italian and Foxtail patterns, Susanne adds color and beauty to each piece to make it a one of a kind.

Her favorite new pattern is called “Flip-Flop.” A long strand of this pattern of chain maille can be held vertically, and then reversed, causing the loose rings on both sides of the chain to flip-flop, falling like soft gentle waves at the beach.

Chain Maille fascinates collectors of artisan jewelry and has created a growing demand to learn the art form. Susanne points out that the main skill needed to be successful weaving chain maille is to be able to open and close the rings correctly. The only tools required are two pairs of jeweler’s pliers. “Jump” rings, small rings of metal wire, are closed until a smooth “join” is formed. The rings are linked uniformly, following a set pattern. The artist is then free to add creative touches that define each piece. Students in her Middletown studio have quickly mastered the skills needed and are adding their own creative touches to chain maille designs.

Many people dream of a job where they do only what they love most. Susanne Faulkner has established a second career that allows her to do just that. Faulkner Sterling Design emerged from her love of beauty, gift for working with her hands, fabulous sense of style and never ending desire to create beautiful things.

Sue delights in helping women express their inner beauty through the high quality artisan jewelry she makes by hand. She creates an endless flow of unique pieces that help any woman to set herself apart. Sue searches the world for beautiful beads, new techniques and materials to delight women. She welcomes others with a passion for jewelry to her studio to explore new possibilities for their collections.

Teaching is a natural part of this former educator’s creative process. Many women enjoy the chance to create jewelry for themselves. Workshops meet regularly in both her Middletown, Delaware studio and the nearby “Gibby” Center for the Creative Arts. Sue loves to gather with small groups for a few hours of creativity. Sue is delighted by their joy as they leave wearing a beautiful piece of jewelry they made for themselves.

Faulkner Sterling Design

115 E Redding St
Middletown, DE 19709
392 378 4850
302 584 7351
ssusanne@faulknersterlingdesign.com
www.faulknersterlingdesign.com

Testimonials for Faulkner Sterling Design:
“You do such gorgeous work. I love your attention to detail and your creative spirit. I have so much fun wearing my pieces and can’t wait for my girls to enjoy their necklaces.” ~Penny

“Your creations were a hit at the wedding. The bridesmaids couldn’t believe how beautiful the necklaces and earrings were, plus they’ll actually want to wear them again. We heard that one mother of a bridesmaid already borrowed her jewelry!” ~Mary

“Hi, Sue! I received my necklace yesterday and it looks so beautiful. Thanks again for creating such a great piece for me. I love it!” ~Kim