Anticlastic Raising
About The Technique
I had the opportunity to attend one of Michael Good’s workshops on anticlastic raising years ago and knew right away that was the technique I wanted to use to bring my creations to life. The process is time-consuming and requires patience to create my intricate designs.
Picture-some examples of the ancient gold using the anticlastic raising techniques.
Anticlastic raising was developed by the Irish some 2,500 years ago. In the late Bronze Age, they used primarily carat gold to create over the shoulder adornments, waist bands, and possibly necklaces. They hammered these artifacts using wood and antlers. Today the technique isn’t very common because just one bracelet requires between 1,000 and 2,000 blows with a hammer. The art was lost about 800 years ago, but two men in the 1970’s, one of them Michael Good, devoted their lives to studying how these adornments were created. Eventually, they determined that the technique involved using an antler-like form and repetitive hammering to create anticlastic and sinclastic designs.
“What gorgeous earrings! They’re utterly unique, modern, and yet somehow ancient. Pattie was extremely patient and responsive in helping me choose stones. I couldn’t be happier, and I plan to wear them often.”
When creating one of my pieces, I start out with a flat sheet of metal and then hammer it repetitively over an antler-like form. I built the antler-like form, myself, so that I could create the exact size and shape of curves I need. The form is made from a plastic cutting board material that is then placed in a vice. My clients can attest to the detail and work that goes into each piece.
Every piece of jewelry I create is hand-crafted and my clients all receive one-on-one time with me. I do this so each individual knows exactly what they will be getting and the processes I will be using to create their design. I explain the type of stone used in their piece, the origins of the stone (if available), and anything applicable to their unique design. Never miss out on a single collection debut. Follow me on Facebook and instagram or you can sign up for my newsletter at the bottom of each page.