Caddisfly larvae show jewellery designers how ‘it’ is done

In 2011 I wrote about a research project I went on in France to investigate how invertebrates can show the level of water pollution in rivers and streams (click here). While I was there, I quickly picked up on the huge diversity of life in rivers, far beyond what we would expect. While searching through one kick sample, I came across a twig which moved and then a little Caddisfly larva emerged – I was fascinated!

Caddisfly larvae have been in the news recently as French artist Hubert Duprat used Caddisfly larvae to produce some stunning jewellery.

Caddisfly larvae live in rivers and streams and to protect themselves they construct a case from materials in their surrounding environment. Some take on gravel, others sand, twigs and anything else that can come together with a little silk to form a protective home.

Duprat used this knowledge by giving his Caddisfly larvae a selection of gold flakes, rubies, pearls and opals. The result – some beautifully formed, totally original and unique beads that are truly one of a kind.

Enjoy the photos!