The term “wheat chain” is not one I had ever heard until I started researching various types of jewelry chain.
Like some other types of chain, it goes by a couple different names. It can be called “spiga” or “espiga,” which is the Spanish word for “wheat.”
Either way, the word refers to the “v” shapes of its interlocking links, looking like a heads of wheat.
The two wheat chains I was able to find locally look to be put together in a way similar to rope chain, with each link connecting to two of the previous links.
But I also found an article at Live about.com, with a sketch of what appears to be a very different way of putting it together. Let me know what you make of the description, as I found it confusing!
If you look closely at the photos I have from Art Beads and Etsy you’ll see a couple of the chains appear to be made that way. As with many of the other chains, I’m finding there’s lots of overlap in the names, configurations and definitions, there don’t appear to be many set standards.
However it’s made, wheat chain is truly beautiful and intricate, and nice enough to be worn by itself without a pendant.
Here are a few of my favorite places to find wheat chain:
Enjoy the video and happy creating!
Watch the What is Wheat Chain? Friday Jewelry Findings Tutorial video at YouTube.
Those are beautiful. I’m wondering if the pattern complicates using beads with them!
Yes, I suspect it will take a bit of advance planning to make even beading on them.