Elements and Principles of Design In the context of jewelry design Jewelry 2 and Studio

Using Jewelry Design Elements: What is a jewelry design element? An "element" is simply a design characteristic that you will use to make interesting designs. Imagine a bracelet that is made up of a single strand of all white beads that are uniform in size and shape, and closed with a plain spring ring clasp. Ok...simple and classic perhaps, but also not very interesting to look at. It is more of an accent piece that fades into the background and doesn't draw much attention.

Now imagine a bracelet made with * a few large, brightly colored handmade lampwork glass beads, * interspersed with smaller crystal beads, * some dangly bead charms attached * completed with a very interesting sterling silver clasp. Now there is a focal bracelet that draws attention, and is a key part of your unique style and look! (Both bracelets we've just described have their place.)

What is the difference between Elements and Principles? Elements are like the basic ingredients you need if you are baking a cake. (flour, sugar, eggs, etc.) A cake can’t be a cake without a certain combination of these things. Principles are the way in which these elements are used. Using the cake analogy, it might be the flavor you include, the way the ingredients are assembled, or what you do with the different ingredients.

Basic Jewelry Design Elements: Color - use of color to set the mood of the piece S h a p e - mix up the shapes to add interest S P A C E - Negative space and positive space are important design elements. Texture - mix up interesting textures, smooth and rough to draw attention. LINE is the visual path that enables the eye to move within the piece.

Color plays a role in jewelry design, which can be bold or subtle: Color can refer to the color of metal or to an added element such as a stone, glass, beads, etc.

Shape used in Jewelry Shape can be organic (curving, natural) Or it can be geometric (angular, precise, man-made)

Space is the most basic element of design. Positive space refers to the tangible (touchable) parts of the piece. Negative space refers to the empty places, the spaces where air shows through.

All jewelry will have Texture. Use it as an element of interesting design. Texture refers to the surface quality.

Look at the use of Line: - Horizontal lines suggest a sense of rest or repose - Vertical lines communicate a sense of spirituality - Diagonal lines suggest a feeling of movement or direction - Curved lines send different meanings; Soft, shallow curves suggest comfort, safety, familiarity, relaxation

Basic Principles of Design in Jewelry: V a r ie t y - use a couple of different size or shapes in your design R h Y t H m - is repetition. Repeat elements to show rhythm. UNITY - Unify your design so it is cohesive - you can do this with repetition. BAL ANCE - can refer to symmetrical, asymmetrical, or radial visual balance Emphasis - where you want the viewer to look first.

Variety is important to relieve monotony in a design. See how it creates interest in these pieces.

Rhythm is an element that is repeated in some sort of predictable way. Rhythm creates a sort of “heartbeat” to the piece. It gives life and energy.

Unity ~ a sense of “one-ness” is created through repetition of shape, color, size, or texture. Creating unity does not mean that variety is neglected. Notice how both principles are used at the same time in greater or lesser degrees in these pieces.

Visual Balance, another important principle for good design: Symmetrical - both sides are the same Asymmetrical - both sides are different, and yet still balanced. Radial - from a center point radiating outward - or rotating around a central point.

Emphasis! Another word for this is focal point. It is the place where you want to make a “splash” or have the viewer put their attention first. Yet, not all jewelry must include this principle, look at the ring below.

Good Design: Is essential for excellence. Therefore, the design process (sketching, planning, and allowing ideas to evolve, which means more sketching) is an essential part of making fine jewelry. Will Incorporate both elements and principles, but not all of them are needed all the time.