Lampwork Glass Earrings | Wearing Glass

Lampworking is an ancient and magical process that borders on alchemy, and I am obsessed with it! To make my jewellery I heat glass rods with a blow-torch, allowing me to manipulate the glass, creating unique shapes. It’s a delicate process requiring precision and patience, but the results are worth it!

THE HISTORY OF LAMPWORKING

Lampworking, also known as flameworking or torchworking, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It gained prominence during the Italian Renaissance in Murano, Venice, where skilled artisans crafted intricate glass beads and ornaments using small oil lamps as their heat source. Today, lampworking has evolved into a versatile art form that allows artists to create everything from delicate beads to elaborate glass sculptures.

HANDMADE GLASS RODS FROM MURANO, ITALY

The tools and techniques I use are steeped in the Italian tradition, in fact I use rods of glass handcrafted at the Effetre factory on Murano, the only manufacturer of coloured glass left on the island. Effetre rods and frit (crushed glass) come in a dazzling array of colours and are of the highest-quality.

MELTING AND COOLING THE GLASS

Now, it's time to get hands-on! I use a specialised blow-torch to melt my glass rods, then with steady hands I carefully shape and form the molten glass, giving each earring its unique charm and personality.

After shaping the glass, it’s time to cool things down – literally! I place the freshly formed glass earrings into a kiln set at a controlled temperature. This annealing process ensures that the glass cools slowly and evenly, reducing internal stress and making the earrings strong and durable.

SILVERSMITHING

Once the glass has cooled and hardened, it’s time to add the finishing touches. I bring out my trusty silversmithing tools and workbench to make sterling silver hooks and add settings for the glass.

And there you have it – a pair of stunning lampwork glass earrings ready to be worn or gifted! Before they find their new home, I pop my work in a beautifully wrapped black box, adding a personal touch with a handwritten note.

Whether you’re treating yourself or surprising a loved one, you're sure to love my lampwork glass earrings.