Jewel Tone Crochet Snowflake Free Pattern – Faceted Gemstone Ornament
Jewel Tone Crochet Snowflake Free Pattern – Faceted Gemstone Ornament
This isn't your grandmother's lacy snowflake. It's a plump, dimensional crochet star with a jewel-toned center and crystalline texture, perfect for adding a touch of modern glamour to your holiday tree or winter window. The faceted effect comes from alternating puff stitches and single crochets, creating a three-dimensional, gem-like appearance that catches the light beautifully. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter or a curious beginner, this pattern is designed to be approachable and rewarding. Let's dive in and create a stunning ornament that will be treasured for years to come.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following supplies. This project is perfect for using up small amounts of worsted weight yarn from your stash.
- Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or acrylic yarn in three jewel tones:
- Deep sapphire blue (approx. 20 yards)
- Amethyst purple (approx. 20 yards)
- Emerald green (approx. 20 yards)
- Metallic Yarn: A small amount of gold metallic yarn for the hanging loop
- Crochet Hook: US Size G/6 (4.0 mm) crochet hook
- Other: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors
Gauge: Gauge is not critical for this project, but for reference, the first 3 rounds of the center measure 1 inch across. The finished snowflake will be approximately 4-5 inches in diameter, depending on your tension.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This snowflake is worked in the round, starting from the center and building outward. The faceted effect comes from alternating puff stitches and single crochets. Follow along carefully, and you'll have a beautiful ornament in no time.
Center (Jewel Tone: Sapphire Blue)
We'll begin with the deep sapphire blue center, which forms the heart of your gemstone.
Round 1: With sapphire blue, make a magic ring. Ch 1, work 6 sc into the ring. Pull ring tight. Join with sl st to first sc. (6 sc)
Round 2: Ch 1, work 2 sc in each sc around. Join with sl st to first sc. (12 sc)
Round 3: Ch 1, *sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc* repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st to first sc. (18 sc)
Round 4: Ch 1, *sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc* repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st to first sc. (24 sc)
Your center should now be a flat, circular disc. If it's curling, don't worry—the subsequent rounds will help flatten it out.
Faceted Body (Amethyst Purple)
Now we'll switch to the amethyst purple to create the faceted, dimensional middle section of your snowflake.
Round 5: Attach amethyst purple yarn with a sl st in any sc. Ch 1, sc in same st. *Ch 2, skip next 2 sc, sc in next sc* repeat from * to * around, ending with ch 2, skip last 2 sc, join with sl st to first sc. (8 ch-2 spaces)
Round 6: Sl st into the first ch-2 space. Ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc) in same space. *In next ch-2 space, work (sc, ch 1, sc)* repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st to first sc. (8 points forming)
Round 7: Sl st into the next ch-1 space. Ch 1, sc in same space. *Ch 3, skip to next ch-1 space, sc in that space* repeat from * to * around, ending with ch 3, join with sl st to first sc. (8 ch-3 loops)
Round 8: Sl st into the first ch-3 loop. Ch 1, (sc, ch 2, sc) in same loop. *In next ch-3 loop, work (sc, ch 2, sc)* repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st to first sc. (8 points, now more defined)
You'll notice the piece starting to take on a star-like shape with distinct points emerging. This is the faceted effect beginning to form.
Crystalline Edges (Emerald Green)
Finally, we'll add the emerald green crystalline edges that give the snowflake its sharp, gem-like points.
Round 9: Attach emerald green yarn with a sl st in any ch-2 space. Ch 1, sc in same space. *Ch 4, skip to next ch-2 space, sc in that space* repeat from * to * around, ending with ch 4, join with sl st to first sc. (8 ch-4 loops)
Round 10: Sl st into the first ch-4 loop. Ch 1, (sc, ch 3, sc) in same loop. *In next ch-4 loop, work (sc, ch 3, sc)* repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st to first sc. (8 large points)
Round 11: Sl st into the first ch-3 space. Ch 1, (sc, ch 5, sc) in same space. *In next ch-3 space, work (sc, ch 5, sc)* repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st to first sc. (8 elongated points)
Round 12: Sl st into the first ch-5 space. Ch 1, (sc, ch 7, sc) in same space. *In next ch-5 space, work (sc, ch 7, sc)* repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off and weave in ends. (8 final points)
Your snowflake now has 8 distinct, elongated arms that flare outward, each ending in a small loop. The three-dimensional, plump shape is complete.
Finishing
Now for the final touches to make your ornament ready for the tree.
Hanging Loop: Using the gold metallic yarn, create a hanging loop by chaining 15, then sl st to the top of one of the points. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Blocking (Optional): Block the snowflake lightly to shape if desired. To block, pin the snowflake to a flat surface, mist with water, and allow to dry completely. This will help the points lie flat and crisp. However, this step is optional—the snowflake will hold its shape well even without blocking.
Weave in all remaining ends with your yarn needle. Your jewel tone crochet snowflake is complete!
Tips for Success
- Magic Ring: If you're new to the magic ring technique, there are many excellent video tutorials online. Alternatively, you can chain 4 and join with a sl st to form a ring, then work Round 1 into the ring.
- Stitch Markers: Use a stitch marker to mark the beginning of each round. This will help you keep track of your place, especially in the early rounds.
- Color Changes: When attaching a new color, do so with a sl st as indicated. This creates a seamless transition between colors.
- Yarn Substitution: While worsted weight yarn is recommended, you can experiment with other weights. Just adjust your hook size accordingly. For a smaller ornament, use fingering weight yarn and a smaller hook.
- Make a Set: These snowflakes make wonderful gifts. Consider making a set of three in different color combinations—perhaps ruby red, sapphire blue, and emerald green—to give as a thoughtful handmade present.
This jewel tone crochet snowflake is a beautiful addition to any holiday decor. Its unique, faceted design sets it apart from traditional flat snowflakes, and the rich colors add a touch of luxury to your festive celebrations. Whether you hang it on your tree, in a window, or use it as a gift topper, it's sure to sparkle and delight. Happy crocheting!