This sweet botanical pendant is handmade using solid sterling silver. Inspired by my own backyard garden it features a tiny flower, hand sculpted leaf and a water cast cup which holds a real fresh water pearl. I created each component by hand in my Calgary, Ab, Canada studio and combined each tiny part to create this little bouquet - it is literally one of a kind!
Wildflower Pearl Pendant // One of a Kind
♢ Solid sterling silver (100% recycled), fresh water pearl
♢ The flower and leaf were created using sterling silver metal clay, which is made up of tiny recycled sterling silver particles mixed with an organic, clay-like binder. It can be sculpted, molded, and formed however I want. For this design, I hand sculpted each petal to form the opening rose and each one is one of a kind! Once the design is completely dry, it goes into my kiln for a two part firing process. The clay reaches 1500℉ for about an hour, during which the organic binder burns away, leaving behind a solid sterling silver mini sculpture.
♢ The cup shape is water cast, and the process creates a unique natural form, full of texture. It is slightly oval in shape, perfect in its imperfectness. To start, I gather all my sterling silver I plan on using and melt it down to over 1700 degree Fahrenheit. When the silver is nice and liquid I carefully pour it into water. As the molten metal hits the surface it sizzles and freezes in place, capturing the moment when the silver is transformed. I love this because each cup is totally unique, outside of my control and I don’t know what kind of shape will emerge!
♢ I finish the pendant with traditional metalsmithing techniques
♢ I apply a dark patina to the recessed areas of the pendant. The high points are polished to a bright shine, creating a beautiful contrast. This contrast between dark and light is what sterling silver is famous for!
♢ The pearl is half drilled and is securely attached to the pendant by sitting on a metal rod and glued into place.
♢ The back is stamped with my MP signature (trademarked) and .925
♢ The process of creating is slow and intentional, I use traditional metalsmithing tools and processes alongside modern ones to create all my pieces by hand. My heart goes into every single piece I design.
