This is a stunning art nouveau-inspired pendant featuring a striking labradorite stone and intricate sterling silver metalwork. Here’s a guide on how to create a similar design:
Materials:
- Wire:
- 20-gauge sterling silver wire for frame
- 22-gauge sterling silver sheet for decorative overlays
- 26-gauge sterling silver wire for weaving
- Sterling silver snake chain
- Stone:
- Large teardrop labradorite cabochon
- Strong blue flash/labrescence
- Approximately 40x25mm
- High quality polish
- Tools:
- Wire cutters
- Jeweler’s saw
- Metal files
- Pliers (flat, round, chain)
- Rolling mill
- Soldering equipment
- Metal stamps/texture tools
- Polishing equipment
- Optional:
- Liver of sulfur for oxidizing
- Polishing cloths
- Design templates
- Metal forming stakes
Steps:
- Create Base Setting:
- Form teardrop bezel from strip silver
- Size precisely to stone
- Create back plate support
- Add reinforcement wire frame
- Design Overlay Elements:
- Cut flowing art nouveau patterns from sheet
- Create graduated curves and scrolls
- Form dimensional elements
- Texture metal surfaces
- Construct Frame:
- Build wire-wrapped border
- Add structural support elements
- Create decorative wire patterns
- Form secure bail assembly
- Assembly:
- Layer decorative elements
- Solder connections where needed
- Set stone securely
- Add final wire details
- Surface Treatment:
- Oxidize to desired depth
- Polish high points
- Clean and finish edges
- Add protective coating
- Final Details:
- Attach bail
- Add chain
- Polish completely
- Check all connections
