Dana Kellin The Show Stopper Necklace Swarovski Crystal Gold Filled

This crystal pendant is a showstopper on any given day—the shimmer is a pure eye-catcher.

Materials: Swarovski crystal, 14k gold fill
Measurements: 16" in length
Origin: Los Angeles, California

"Although wire wrapping dates back to ancient Egypt, DK started their unique process a little more recently, when Dana was 10 and Elizabeth was 7. A telephone repairman came to their childhood home to do some work, and left behind spools of colorful, coated wire which Dana turned into long necklaces of interlocking links that she gave to friends. Cut to 1990, when Dana was working as an editor for WWD and W Magazine and making jewelry to manage stress. Still gifting her pieces to friends, one of them owned a showroom and encouraged the sisters to consider starting a business. Twenty eight years later, that simple technique has evolved into the intricate, meticulous, mind-numbingly detailed process that we have come to be known for. 

DK pieces often start with a wire form that serves as a blank canvas. Multiple components are “sewn” on in a complex pattern to create unique compositions. Wire can be unforgiving and they use a selection of different gauges, some of which are very fine. One false step and it can be kinked or broken, and then it’s back to square one. This is one of the reasons it takes years to master their particular approach. Despite the somewhat fragile nature of fine-gauge wire, their design and construction ensures that their jewelry is literally built to last. Add to that, the timeless beauty of their pieces along with the allure of handmade, bespoke creations and it’s why their designs are often referred to as keepsakes."