Today's project combines two of my favorite things in jewelry. The simplicity of pearl earrings and unique handmade ear wires. There are so many options when making your own earring findings - it is an area that I love to explore.
The ear wire shape is not my own creation (few things are!), but they are a variation of... you guessed it - some earrings on my Pinterest Earring Inspiration board. The original earrings are from Bloomingdale's and are considerably more refined than my attempt. No worries though - I wasn't really going for a copy - just an interpretation.
Here's my big 'Oops' on this project. I made my first pair of ear wires and I thought I had the process down. Make the loop for the pearl dangle, hammer, and then make the rest of the curve shape of the earring. So, I made about 5 pairs like that - and tumbled them. And they were wonky. The curves of the ear wires weren't smooth and flowing enough and I think that's a key element of the design. So, I had to go back to square one.
It was much better when I made the main curve of the earring first, and then the loops - even though it was more difficult to hammer in the tighter area of the curve. The headpins are also handmade - balled ends that I hammered flat to make a small circle.
The last step is to add some antique patina to these earrings as a finishing touch.
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