The use of texture in Fashion Costume Jewellery

Texture is a feature of jewellery that we rarely think about but that plays a huge role in how we think about our jewellery pieces particularly those that fall into the fashion costume jewellery category. Texture is obvious when we look at a ring (for example), usually the ring shank is smooth and comfortable when we slip it over our finger – imagine what it would be like if it was rough. The top or design of the ring can also vary – glass rings for example are often smooth whereas a stone with a set stone can be rough. The glass ring will not catch on anything and the ring may or may not depending on the surfaces with which it comes in contact. If a stone is inset it will likely as not feel smoother than one with a prong set, but the setting in which it is inlaid will determine this. Whether the stone is facetted, like this magnificent tiger eye for example, or smooth like the carnelian cabochon makes a difference too. This faceting can affect the way we perceive the stone too – the facetted tiger eye will catch the light, each facet playing on the next, whereas the smooth carnelian will show a depth of colour within the stone. Pendants too will differ considerably depending on their texture. Consider this hand beaded pendant. The centre is a smooth, well rounded black onyx cabochon. The back is a soft acrylic material, that sits comfortably against your skin. The fringe is made from semi precious stone chips – blue goldstone and white quartz  interspersed with red and blue glass seed beads. The centre radiates a calm presence and is fixed and firm whereas the fringe offers fun and frivolity as well as movement making the piece very eclectic. This textural dichotomy is most interesting. Of course, the constant movement of the fringe also makes for a constantly changing view of the jewellery and unexpected juxtapositions. While the...

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