Inspired by the resilience and beauty of chrysanthemum flowers, these sterling silver studs capture their delicate layers and quiet strength. The chrysanthemum symbolizes different things in different cultures - everything from loyalty and longevity to honour and friendship. I’m curious, does the chrysanthemum symbolize anything special to you?
Whatever your feelings are about these sweet flowers may these earrings serve as a small reminder of the beauty that comes from blooming in every season.
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Chrysanthemum Studs
♢ Solid sterling silver (100% recycled)
♢ Each bloom was created in metal clay, which is made up of tiny, recycled sterling silver metal particles mixed with and organic clay like binder. It can be sculpted, molded, and formed however I want. For this design I have a little mold that I press the clay into. It allows me to make the perfect matching pair of earrings and other little elements for my designs. After the design dries 100% into my kiln it goes for a two-part firing process. The clay reaches 1500℉ for about an hour and the organic binder burns completely away leaving a solid sterling silver mini sculpture in its place.
♢ I finish the earrings with traditional metalsmithing techniques and solder on solid sterling silver posts. Included are solid sterling silver butterfly style ear backings.
♢ A dark patina is applied to the recessed areas of each group of leaves, and the earrings go into my tumbler with steel shot to harden and polish the surface. The high points are polished to a bright shine, creating a beautiful contrast. The contrast between dark and light is what sterling silver is famous for!
