Lightning Ridge Crystal Opal and emerald pendant -
The star of the show is this massive 9.3-carat Crystal Opal sourced directly from Lightning Ridge, Australia. Do you see how the neon greens and electric blues seem to float and shift inside the stone? It has this incredible, three-dimensional depth to it. To complement those vibrant flashes, I balanced it with a bright, natural, rich green emerald (0.84ct., Zambia) resting right on top of the piece. Both bezels are solid 22K gold. I love using high-karat gold because that warm, buttery yellow really makes the colors of the stones pop. The entire piece is built on a substantial, heavy sterling silver backplate. I gave the silver a deep, vertically hammered texture and then applied a dark oxidized finish. That dramatic, blackened contrast is pushing the brilliance of the gold and the gems right forward. It has a beautiful weight to it when you hold it, itβs a true heirloom piece. Bail is 18K gold. Back of the opal is open. Pendant measures 1 1/2 x 1β (not including the bail loop), chain is 18β - optional (add on). Opal measures 19x14mm.
