If you look up chainmail on the web there is a good definition of, "refers to armor that is made from metal rings that are joined together in a pattern to form a protective mesh. Historically this kind of armor was used to protect soldiers on the battlefield from slashing and stabbing injuries."  At Medieval or Renaissance fairs vendors of chainmail can always be found.  And that is when I first fell in love with it.  I find it interesting that a metal substance, when woven together can be soothing to the touch.  I also find it amazing historically how many different cultures used it for either armor or for decoration.