Copper (8 and 20 ga), forged and knit
2 x 3.5 (pendant), 20 in (chain)
NFS

The fibula is an ancient form of brooch, also known as the ancient precursor to the modern safety pin. First appearing in the late Bronze Age from the Mycenaean Greeks, fibulae quickly became a popular mode of garment fastening and ranging from the original simple bow-like shapes to designs that were much more complex. Resulting from the rise and spread of the Roman Empire, fibulae have been found from Northern Europe through the Near East.
In my exploration of ancient jewelry, I became fascinated with the forms of historic fibulae. The forged stem of a fibula would mean destruction for most modern fabrics due to tight machine-made weaves; more appropriate looser-woven clothing is more common in winter scarves and sweaters, which, sadly, don't see as much wear in Texas' southern climate. I wanted to create a contemporary solution to revitalize this ancient form, and this was the result! A fibula that serves both as a decorative pendant and an effective clasp for its chain.