Zaphiria

(2006) 3"x2.75" for the knotwork pendant, 18" overall length. Silver Art Clay, liver of sulphur, faceted moonstone beads, 22 and 20 gauge silver wire, Bali silver, silver findings, fireline.

Unlike my previous silver clay designs where I used moulds, I made this pendant from scratch, starting with a flat panel of clay and cutting out the basic shape and the spare areas inside. After drying I took a file to the whole thing, smoothed all the edges and carved out the "over-under" of the knotwork panel. The amount of control you have this way is much better than using moulds. Also you produce much lighter pieces. I will definitely work more in this manner.

After firing, blackening and polishing I added the moonstone dangles and fixed the pendant on a strung necklace of moonstone and silver beads. The pendant design is roughly based on artwork used for Elvish armor and jewelry in the LOTR trilogy.