A throwback from the past. Well, not that far back. I made this last year for a client and somehow the picture got lost in my files. But great to have found it since emeralds seem to be the stone of the year. And yes those green pebble-like things are emeralds; in rough form. Uncut and unpolished. Set in a yellow gold frame along with faceted multi-colored sapphires to provide a strong contrast of colors and textures. And the end result is quite the interesting piece. And so unusually engaging that people always ask her what she's wearing.
Not the turkey. But something commonly related with vanity; the peacock. The attributes of this bird goes beyond beauty though. Because of the eye-like patterns on its feathers, characteristics of awakening, protection and holiness were derived and attached to the wearer as well. The colors reflect those of nobility. Peacocks are also known to eat certain poisonous plants without suffering any symptoms; hence they were oft represented as being immortal as well. But my favorite quality would be that of it possessing spiritual healing energy; aiding those seeking balance and harmony in their lives. Which proves that even in nature style and substance really can exist together. And here is our tribute to the peacock. A bespoke brooch using antique diamonds and pave of blue and green sapphires in yellow gold.
Many thanks again to Rorie Carlos and T&C. You can click on the images to enlarge. Bangle number 1 on the upper left is from Aum; made by hand-weaving strips of yellow gold.
The folded gold and keshi pearl brooch in the center's mine as well as the diamond ribbon with three white south sea pearls on top of it. Thanks to Rorie Carlos and Louie Aguinaldo!
It's out in the stands right now but official launch will be this week. What a great addition to the local magazine titles available locally. Some snapshots of my wedding last April are featured in the inaugural issue. Including the brooch I designed specifically for the/my bride to wear on the big day. Not a lot of this Edwardian jewelry style is made today because of the great deal of labor involved. But as you can see, the end product is an important and timeless piece that will last generations. Such intricacy; a great amount of detail can be seen in the picture below (the photo's quite tiny in the magazine so here's a bigger view).
*Edwardian brooch of diamonds and Tahitian drop pearls in white gold. approximately 100cm x 130cm.
Gold. Warm. Rich and luxurious. Understandable why countries have been built and ruined by this noble metal. More so these days as prices are as high as they have ever been historically. But of course we do wear jewelry for a different purpose. And to associate it with just material value is totally not the point. We talk about beauty and craftsmanship and all that. At the end of the day if you're happy with a purchase then that's all that matters.
Above is a handmade brooch of multi textured gold sheets with a baroque pearl and diamonds. Will try posting a few more pieces in gold these coming weeks in time for summer.