.............. KNOWLEDGE ZONE ..............
In the ongoing struggle to bring recognition and honor back to this forgotten art form, it has been decreed by Leslie Hall and the Mobile Museum of Gem Sweaters' Board of Directors that this breathtaking art form be brought to the people so that they might behold the craftsmanship, the gloriousness and gaze upon them in wonderment.
A Gem Sweater is a knitted or crocheted pullover which has been decorated and embellished with one or more of the following; gems, rhinestones, beats, studs, jewels, or pearls. A Gem Sweater is not a cardigan or decorated with the following; puffy paint, buttons, embroidery, ribbon, iron on transfer or metallic thread.
The components for the formula, which make up the Gem Sweater date back to the early 1920's. The flapper girls looking to maximize the reflectiveivity of its day started creating gowns made of only sequins and string. However perspiration and the plus size gal we're not taking into consideration. During the 1950's cardigans become popular for the everyday women yet boring and dull styles forced them out of the nightlife. For the 1960's a fashion designer named Nudie began garnishing studs and rhinestones to western wear. Known as the Rhinestone Cowboy look, women did take notice yet still did know how to harness such power. However the 1970's brought Elvis Presley rhinestone incrusted jumpsuits. It was this style which finally the modern and classy women rose up to say "I shall take the comfort and quality of the sweater and dribble and lace it with the shine and magic quality's that sequins, rhinestones, and beads have to offer." My children I present you with the Gem Sweater.
