Bali Silver

Balinese silvers are handmade and some of the techniques date back over 400 years. Primarily the appointed smiths lovingly created Gold pieces for the Royal Family.  Sterling Silver was only utilised for detailed ceremonial bowls, ornate boxes, but never jewellery.

Then over the last 35 years a demand rose for silver items to be created, which spawned the growth of the silver industry in Bali.

To create the silver wire, the smith uses a thick iron board with various sized and shaped holes on it. Depending on the grade / thickness required, the Sterling Silver is pulled through the hole with pliers, say 0.5mm, and as it is drawn through any excess silver is cut away, to create a round and smooth length.

Once the smith has all the lengths of silver, they are then woven together tightly, whilst maintaining a fluid and smooth finish. After this the piece is then blackened or oxidised. This discolouration process is a fundamental Bali technique, required to enhance the weave pattern, and give it the famous eye-catching finish.

Finally a polish is required so only the oxidized areas remain in between the links. The chain is then cut to the exact length, finished with handmade end caps, and the appropriate hook or toggle fastener.