The inspiration:
Another design that has evolved from the idea of holding light and protecting the spark within. This earthy, swirling agate contains a universe in its depths, lit gently by an ember of garnet smouldering below.

The materials:
Agate has been an important creative materials throughout human history, its use dating back to the Bronze age. Found all over the world, used by so many different cultures, agate has been used to make ornamental items such as jewelry and carvings, and for practical objects such as knives, seals and cups. Agate stones are even used as tools in jewellery making: an agate tipped burnisher is used to raise a mirror shine on silver. Lace agates are also known as Mexican agates, and are found in a kinds of colours and patterns, including pale blues, warm yellows, and sometimes pinks and reds like this specimen. Like all brightly hued agates, they have traditionally represented support and encouragement, and thought to promote an optimistic outlook and belief in silver linings!

Garnets comprise their own mineral classification, with distinct varieties in yellow, orange, red, brown and even vibrant green. Red garnets were one of the most common gemstones used throughout the Roman Empire and by those predominantly northern peoples who then took over the territory of the Western Roman Empire. Throughout history, garnet's beloved rich red symbolized passion, power and creativity. It was historically considered a warrior's stone, often worn for protection and expanded awareness. It is now celebrated as the birthstone of January babies and as loved as a beautiful, durable gemstone and for its myriad industrial and technological uses.

The process:
This pendant is made entirely from recycled sterling silver sheet, set with a large, round, smoothly polished agate and a glossy, round garnet. Delicate silver sprouts encircle the stones, while a trio of tiny sterling beads sparkles at the bottom edge. The silver has been treated to a dramatic patina and bright polish. Thanks to these exquisite stones, this piece is truly one-of-a-kind. This beautiful red lace agate was mined in the Chihuahua area of Northern Mexico and sourced from Saya Suka Bone in California.
I have recycled much of the silver used to make this pendant; melting sterling scrap down to form silver ingots, flattening and drawing the silver down to plate and wire using hammers and my rolling mill, and then using this newly reclaimed silver to create my work.

The details:
Pendant: 1.5” (40 mm) long by just over 1” (26 mm) wide
Red lace agate: 22 mm in diameter, with a swirl of pinks, red, burgundy, sienna and browns, marked with delicate white veining and a secret pocket of crystal along one edge.
Garnet: 7 mm in diameter, with a juicy, red-wine colour.
The sterling silver chain is 20" (51 cm) long with smoky quartz beaded links at 16" (41 cm), 18" (46 cm) and a garnet-beaded link at 20" (51 cm). It fastens with a sterling silver lobster claw-style clasp.
(A longer or shorter chain option is available, simply convo me for more details.)

All of my jewelry is made by me in my cozy home studio and will be shipped to you as shown, beautifully packaged and ready for giving as a gift for someone special (like yourself!)

Thank you for shopping and supporting handmade!