Double Abalone and Pierced Necklace

Abalone shell is a very cool material! It has an opalescence and mix of color and textures. Some pieces are more smooth, while other pieces can be more mosaic like with lots of details. Both styles are representing in this necklace. Abalone has the energy of the ocean inside, its love, life, and flow.

Design:

This necklace is made from oxidized sterling silver with rose and yellow gold accents.

The abalone is hand cut with traditional lapidary equipment.

The metalwork on this necklace has Ajouré elements, or a pattern cut out of the metal. I first create a hollow domed shape in sterling silver. This allows a larger forms to be light weight. Gold pieces are soldered onto the silver forms to compliment and enhance the shapes. A round accent diamond adds a touch of sparkle to the design.

The abalone pieces and diamond are bezel set. My custom bezels are handmade specifically for each individual stone. The key features of my bezels are the hand cut notches that are placed asymmetrically into the bezel as an added signature detail. The stone is completely surrounded on all sides by metal. It’s the most secure and stable setting.

Oxidized Sterling Silver, 18k Yellow Gold, 14k Rose Gold

Abalone, Diamond

Chain is mixed links of Oxidized Sterling Silver adjustable from 16”-21”