Filigree

Filigree (through Span. from Lat. filum, 'a thread,' and granum, 'a grain'), so called because composed of fine wire of silver or gold, often ornamented with small beads. The wire used is twisted into spirals and other convoluted forms, which are united and partly consolidated by soldering; and these spirals, &c. are combined to form a sort of metallic lace-work, which is shaped into brooches, ear-rings, crosses, head-ornaments, card-cases, trays, and other objects of a light and elegant character. Filigree-work is also employed for the ornamentation of articles having a solid metallic base of precious metal, or of copper, the wires being soldered down in definite patterns to the supporting plate. That filigree, as a style of jeweller's work, is of great antiquity is evidenced by remains found in ancient Egyptian tombs. That a knowledge of the art was very widespread is also manifest from the fact that it was largely practised by the ancient Greeks, the Etruscans, and the Romans. We know further that from remote ages it was practised in Central Asia and in India, where to this day it has continued in unbroken succession, and it is now a most characteristic style of work in the Central and North-west Provinces. Among the Celtic and Scandinavian tribes of early times filigree was also a favourite method of ornamentation. The Quigrich (see FILLAN, ST), and the Hunterston Brooch (see BROOCH) are magnificent examples of early northern metal-work in which filigree ornamentation on a solid basis is a prominent feature. In the jewelry of the Scandinavian races filigree still occupies an important place. The manufacture of filigree jewelry is so characteristic of Malta that the style has come to be popularly known as Maltese work.