pass·amen·terie | pæsˈmɛntri
noun
Jewelry inspired by furniture trimmings such as cording
The French term Passamenterie refers to the art of edging or trimming jewelry and furniture in elaborate patterns, often made from gold or silver. This was commonly applied to fashion of the time, as well as furniture, and jewelry in turn was made that borrowed from the designs of the trim. One of the earliest examples of passamenterie is white linen lace that was applied to clothing. It is still used today in some clothing, including braidwork on military uniforms and the lacework in wedding dresses. The form dates back to the 16th century in France when a guild devoted to the work was established, documenting the different forms of passamenterie which in turn influenced jewelry designs throughout the 17th and 18th century.
