Frequently asked questions involving chain maille:
What is Chain Maille?
Chain maille or maille was a form of armor used in the middle ages to protect soldiers against arrows, swords etc. The most common weaves include Persian, European and Japanese with many variations arising from each type. For example, within the European family, there is the King's maille weave is is essentially a double reinforced weave formulated for extra protection. Today, chain maille has become popular within the historical reinactment and Celtic fair communities as well as for jewelry. Furthermore, titanium chain maille is still in use today as shark suits for divers.
How are different "looks" achived?
Different variations of the same weave are obtained using different size and shaped rings as well as by using different materials and colors?
Why are some of your jewelry pieces made in silver while other pieces are made in bronze, copper or stainless steel?
Gold and silver are subject to global economy meaning that there prices fluctuate by the day. For the last year or so, the economic market has not been favorable to those working with gold and silver. I, (Jessica), decided that although I would continue to work in silver, I have somewhat moved away to offer a more affordable and more elaborate product. Base metals such as stainless steel, bronze and copper have their advantages because they are many times stronger than sterling and gold and can take a little more abuse; for example, a chain made of bronze can be pulled (by a small child, for example) and maintain its shape and strength where as sterling or gold if pulled can distort or worse, break.
How do I take care of my chain maille jewelry?
We advise the use of jewelry cleaners for precious metals. As for the other metals, it is really quite simple: take a small container and fill it with 1/2 cold water and 1/2 cup white vinegar. Allow your piece to soak for about 20 minutes. Remove it and run it under cool water. If you own stainless steel, great news! It won't tarnish!