Craft a Symbolic Pomegranate Seed Necklace - DIY Jewelry Making

The Beautiful and Symbolic Pomegranate Seed Necklace

Pomegranate seed necklaces have become a popular DIY jewelry trend, admired for their natural, earthy beauty and symbolic meaning. The bright red seeds of the pomegranate fruit create a striking statement necklace that connects us to history, culture, and the cycles of nature.

Gathering the Pomegranate Seeds

The first step in creating a pomegranate seed necklace is harvesting the arils - the fleshy pulp that surrounds each seed. Select pomegranates that feel heavy for their size, with taut, vibrant skin. Cut the fruit in half horizontally. Holding one half over a bowl, use your fingers to lightly pry the gem-like red seeds loose from the pith. The juice will stain fingers and clothing, so wear an apron and have paper towels on hand.

Once the arils are removed, carefully pull away and discard any of the white pith still clinging to them. Spread the arils out on paper towels to dry completely before stringing. Drying intensifies their color and prevents early spoilage.

Stringing Techniques

A necklace threaded solely on pomegranate seeds utilizes their natural beauty in its simplest form. Or, for more intricate styles, intersperse seeds with beads, charms, or chain. Crimp ends neatly frame the design. Begin by laying out the general pattern, then slide components onto beading wire or thread. Crimp the ends with pliers or tie secure knots, and finish by forming clasps or using jewelry glue.

History and Significance

Seeds and pomegranates have carried symbolic meaning across cultures and eras. Ancient Egyptians viewed pomegranates as symbols of prosperity and ambition. In Greek myth, the pomegranate represents life, death and rebirth centering on the story of Persephone. In Judaism, pomegranates signify righteousness, wisdom and fertility. Their crown-like calyx is seen in motifs and art of many religions. In India, China and Southeast Asia the bright seeds denote prosperity, fertility and luck.

The pomegranate's many seeds encapsulated within one fruit signify unity and courage. When strung into a necklace, they become a meaningful, personal statement worn close to the heart. Their deep red color represents passion and creativity. As a DIY project, making pomegranate seed jewelry connects us to history and symbolic meaning as well as the beauty of nature.

Incorporating Other Natural Materials

Pomegranate seeds pair beautifully with other elements from nature like wood, pearls, shells, coral, sandalwood, amber and tourmaline. Mixing textures and neutral hues highlights the vibrant red seeds. Or, create an all-natural necklace by alternating seeds with wooden beads, pearls, shells or sandalwood beads. Adding carved leaves or feathers brings in organic asymmetry. Allow the seeds to be the stars against this neutral backdrop.

Seasonal and Holiday Designs

As a fall fruit, #pomegranate seeded jewelry fits nicely into autumnal themes. Accent handmade pomegranate necklaces with leaves, acorns or cinnamon sticks for seasonal flair. The red and green color scheme also works well for Christmas and holiday designs. Incorporate jingle bells, miniature ornament charms or candy canes with the red seeds and green foliage. Let the necklace reflect the symbols and cheer of the season.

Preserving Your Pomegranate Creation

Allow pomegranate arils to dry fully before stringing, as excess moisture will cause them to spoil quickly. Even when dry, the organic nature of the fruit means pomegranate seed jewelry has a shorter shelf life than components like glass or crystals. Store the necklace in a dry, breathable container in a cool place. Glass jars or small linen pouches work well. Refrigeration can help extend the life of your homemade piece by a few extra weeks when stored properly.

Coat dried seeds with a protective spray sealant or finishing varnish for lasting wear. Reapply every month or so. Display your necklace on a bust or form rather than hanging to reduce handling and fraying of the thread or wire over time.

Simple, Natural and Timeless

Pomegranate seed necklaces bring natural elegance inspired by history, art and myth into jewelry making. The bright red seeds arranged artfully on their own or mixed with other elements create timeless accessories. Simple or ornate, delicate or bold, they make meaningful statement pieces to craft by hand. As an ancient fruit rich with human cultivation and lore spanning the globe, the pomegranate continues offering symbolic abundance, fertility and unity threaded into modern DIY necklace creations.

FAQs

Can you eat the seeds from a pomegranate seed necklace?

It's not recommended. Pomegranate seeds on a necklace are dried, may be coated in varnish, and are not prepared in a food safe way. Enjoy fresh pomegranate arils as a healthy snack instead.

How long will a pomegranate seed necklace last?

With proper storage and care, a pomegranate seed necklace can last 1-3 months. Take steps like sealing dried seeds before stringing, keeping the necklace in a breathable container, and limiting wear and handling to preserve it.

What kind of thread should be used for pomegranate seed jewelry?

Cord, beading wire, linen, hemp, or nylon thread are good options. Avoid silk or cotton threads, which fray easily. Choose a strong thread that matches aesthetically and can handle some weight.

Can children wear and even make pomegranate seed necklaces?

Yes! Under supervision, seed jewelry can be a fun craft for older children. Kids can help remove seeds from the fruit to make necklaces they can proudly wear or gift.