The Aurora Borealis Crochet Statement Necklace: A Free Northern Lights Lariat Pattern

Imagine wrapping yourself in the ethereal glow of the northern lights—not as a fleeting moment in the sky, but as a stunning, wearable piece of art. This free crochet pattern for the Aurora Borealis Statement Necklace transforms a gradient of jewel-toned yarns into a soft, sculptural lariat that cascades like ribbons of celestial light. It's as cozy as a scarf and as striking as a gemstone, making it the perfect statement piece for boho lovers and wearable art enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter or a curious beginner, this project is a delightful journey into color and texture.

This necklace is worked in two main parts: a series of crocheted "ribbons" that are joined to form a lariat, and a central "sunburst" medallion that acts as the focal point. The result is a versatile accessory that drapes beautifully over your collarbone, with the ribbon ends hanging freely down your back or front. No clasp is needed—just slip it over your head and let the aurora do the talking.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials. The gauge is not critical for this project, but for reference, 4 single crochets (sc) = 1 inch and 4 rows = 1 inch in single crochet.

• Yarn: Worsted weight (#4) cotton or cotton-blend yarn in 5 colors: deep teal, emerald green, soft turquoise, lavender, and pale pink (approx. 20g each).
• Optional Accent: A small amount of silver or gold metallic thread for adding sparkle and star-like details.
• Hook: 3.5mm (E) crochet hook.
• Extras: Yarn needle for sewing and weaving in ends, scissors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern is broken down into three parts: creating the five ribbons, crocheting the sunburst medallion, and assembling the necklace. Use the magic ring technique for all circular starts to ensure a tight, neat center.

Part 1: The Ribbons (Make 5)

Each ribbon is a long, narrow strip worked in rows. You will make one ribbon in each of the five colors: deep teal, emerald green, soft turquoise, lavender, and pale pink.

1. Row 1: Chain (ch) 6. Single crochet (sc) in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across. You should have 5 sc. Turn your work.
2. Row 2: Chain 1 (ch 1). Sc in each sc across (5 sc). Turn.
3. Repeat Row 2 until the ribbon measures 18 inches (45 cm) from the start. This will create a flat, smooth strip with a subtle woven texture.
4. Fasten off, leaving a 6-inch tail for sewing. Repeat this process for the remaining four colors.

Part 2: The Sunburst Medallion

This medallion will be the heart of the necklace, joining all the ribbons together. It's worked in concentric rounds, transitioning through the gradient of colors.

1. Round 1 (Deep Teal): Make a magic ring. Ch 1, work 6 sc into the ring. Pull the ring tight, then slip stitch (sl st) to join. (6 sc)
2. Round 2 (Deep Teal): Ch 1, work 2 sc in each sc around. Sl st to join. (12 sc)
3. Round 3 (Deep Teal): Ch 1, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next sc* repeat from * to * around. Sl st to join. (18 sc)
4. Round 4 (Deep Teal): Ch 1, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 2 sc* repeat from * to * around. Sl st to join. (24 sc)
5. Round 5 (Change to Emerald Green): Ch 1, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 3 sc* repeat from * to * around. Sl st to join. (30 sc)
6. Round 6 (Change to Soft Turquoise): Ch 1, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 4 sc* repeat from * to * around. Sl st to join. (36 sc)
7. Round 7 (Change to Lavender): Ch 1, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 5 sc* repeat from * to * around. Sl st to join. (42 sc)
8. Round 8 (Change to Pale Pink): Ch 1, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 6 sc* repeat from * to * around. Sl st to join. (48 sc)
9. Round 9 (Pale Pink): Ch 1, sc in each sc around. Sl st to join. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

Part 3: Assembly

Now it's time to bring the aurora to life by joining the ribbons to the medallion and creating the lariat effect.

1. Attach the Ribbons: Lay the sunburst medallion flat. Take one ribbon (deep teal) and sew its end to the edge of the medallion at any point. Repeat with the remaining four ribbons, spacing them evenly around the medallion's circumference (about every 7-8 sc). Use the yarn needle and the tails left on the ribbons to secure them firmly.
2. Create the Lariat Effect: Gather all the free ends of the ribbons together and tie them in a loose overhand knot, leaving the ends to dangle freely. For a more polished look, you can sew a small crocheted ring (ch 10, sl st to form a loop) to the ends and thread the ribbons through it. This keeps them tidy while still allowing movement.
3. Weave in Ends: Carefully weave in all loose ends using the yarn needle to ensure a clean finish.
4. Optional Sparkle: For extra magic, use the metallic thread to embroider small French knots or straight stitches randomly across the medallion and the ribbons. This mimics stars in the night sky and adds a touch of glamour.

Wearing Your Necklace

Drape the necklace over your neck, letting the medallion rest at your collarbone and the ribbon ends hang down your back or front. The lariat style means no clasp is needed—just slip it over your head. The soft, pliable yarn drapes gracefully, and the rich, jewel-toned colors evoke the aurora borealis in all its glory.

This pattern is a celebration of color and texture, perfect for adding a handmade, artistic touch to any outfit. Whether you're crafting for yourself or gifting to a loved one, the Aurora Borealis Crochet Statement Necklace is sure to be a treasured piece. Happy crocheting!