Filigree is best described as what technique?

• A. Cutting metal into decorative shapes
• B. Casting metal into beads
• C. Engraving patterns into metal
• D. Forming metal threads to resemble a lace pattern

Answer: (D)

Filigree is the technique of creating decorative metalwork by shaping and arranging thin metal threads or filaments into intricate, openwork patterns that resemble lace, then soldering them together. This construction of fine wires to form delicate, lace-like designs is what gives filigree its characteristic look. It differs from simply cutting solid shapes (which makes a piece solid), from engraving (which carves into a surface), or from casting into beads (which involves forming bulk shapes in molds). In short, filigree builds the piece from fine metal threads to create a lacey, airy pattern.