Bishop's Mantle Chain Mail Collar Necklace - Anjo Designs

Using traditional chain mail techniques, Anjo assembled stainless steel rings to produce this stunning necklace measuring 45cm in length. This mail necklace is set apart from the traditional armour by a subtle matt blue trim that contrasts against the metallic silver; making it a fashionable piece of jewellery. As a complex system of rings, this necklace has a labyrinthine quality that makes a real statement, especially when it catches the light.

Due to this unique jewellery being handmade, every piece will no doubt vary slightly from the images shown; even the blue rings are varying shades of blue and green. You can be assured though, due to the intricate nature of mail, that time has been spent on each item to ensure its high quality of finish.

The inspiration for this beautifully hand crafted bishop's mantle collar necklace was taken from the Pizaine or 'Bishop's Mantle' in the Royal Armouries collection (object number III.14). This mail from Nuremberg in Germany dates back to the 15 ^th century and was worn over light armour by German infantry. It uses the most common mail pattern, four-in-one; this means that each link has four adjoining links.

Mail is often referred to in the modern day as 'chain mail' despite this being superfluous as both words have the same definition. Mail is believed to have been invented before the 5 ^th century and is the earliest form of metal armour known to man as it was used by the Etruscans and Romans. It is made using a range of materials, but most commonly steel or iron. It starts as wire which is wrapped around a rod to produce each metal link before being expertly assembled to produce the wearable garment.

Anjo Designs are a husband and wife partnership based on the Wirral who combine the traditional methods of mail with modern design influences to create bespoke jewellery. Everything they produce is hand crafted with precision, taking reference from historic mail and traditional techniques. This is an exclusive piece made by Anjo for the Royal Armouries and is inspired by our collection.

The Bishop's Mantle Collar chain mail necklace is a statement piece on its own but combined with the European Mail Bracelet and earrings it becomes a one-of-a-kind set.