TEHRAN-- Islamic Azad University played host to a workshop on handmade decorations and fashion jewelry on Tuesday.The workshop was aimed to take a new look at the art of filigree, which Zanjan is famed for, according to Zanjan provinces tourism chief.The workshop was the very first of its kind in Zanjan as it covered special knowledge, self-employment, and self-training skills along with entrepreneurship essentials with a make over at the art of filigree, Seyyed Saeid Safavi said.Filigree is among the most crucial applied arts in the central western province.

It is a kind of metalworking, and researchers have traced it back to 550-330 BC.The tools used to make the filigree are really similar to those used by goldsmiths.

The first step in making filigree is to put stocks of silver, gold, or copper through a rolling mill to turn them into thin wires about one to two millimeters thick.Then two or 3 threads are twisted together to form chains or gone through a roller, giving them sharp edges.

The mold of the preferred shape is then made by putting thick strips of metal around a cast iron or iron base.

Then the iron base is heated up and a layer of wax is applied to it.

The wax is utilized to hold the small pieces of great thread together.Now the mold is put on the iron base, and the little pieces of wire are positioned according to a nice style.

Finally, the iron base is heated up again to melt the wax.

The work is separated from the base.

A mixture of borax and silver powder is then poured in and they are heated till the mix melts and complies with the silver coins.

Silver becomes dull and loses its appeal.

It is then washed with acetic acid and polished.Many detailed artifacts have actually been found in the UNESCO-designated treasuries of Susa, Dura-Europos, Hamedan, and Jeyhoun, showing that this craft has actually been practiced considering that ancient times.There are very few historic records of Zanjan filigree work, however explorers who visited the city pointed out stunning filigree crafts and jewelry.Based on these data, the 16th century is the earliest recorded history of watermarking.

Today, most filigree products are made from silver, which is acquired by melting old and obsolete silver items.

Some other components used are natural wax, aqua regia, alum, and sulfuric acid.Today, gold filigree is utilized to make precious jewelry such as earrings, rings, etc, while silver filigree is used to make dishes.

The most typical motifs used in the Zanjan watermark are paisley, ivy, and flowers.AFM