The previous post showed how a cameo brooch was crafted. Did you get a chance to see it?
Actually, we had previously posted photos of that shell cameo brooch on Instagram.
After seeing those photos, a new customer contacted us asking if it was possible to create a pendant top that also functions as a brooch, using a cameo brooch and several pieces of jewelry that were no longer being used or had been inherited.
Jewelry before reform, initially entrusted to us (photo above)
First, we received an agate cameo brooch, a ring with pearls and peridot, and a tie tack with pearls and amber. These were precious pieces of jewelry inherited from her father, among others. Also included was a diamond necklace that was no longer being used. The customer requested that all gemstones be utilized, and entrusted us with the design.
We carefully removed the gemstones from their original settings and proposed a design that incorporated all the entrusted gems. During our conversation, we learned that she particularly liked the splendor of the cameo brooch she had seen previously (previous post), and that she also owned several other unused pieces of jewelry. Later, she brought in additional jewelry, and we finalized a new design proposal that incorporated both her additional jewelry and some gems from 440.
Before reform, including additional jewelry entrusted to us (photos above)
Once the design was finalized, we proceeded with creating the setting.
The customer's gemstones to be set around the cameo included garnet, chrysoberyl cat's eye, peridot, amber, diamond, pearl, and coral. The 440 gemstones selected to balance and harmonize with the cameo and surrounding gems were peridot, garnet, carnelian, and sapphire (blue, yellow, purple).
To confirm the shape and color scheme, we created a resin mockup for the customer to hold and visually inspect for final approval.
Resin mockup (photo above)
Among the entrusted gemstones, there were many garnets. We meticulously calculated the quantity and placement to ensure that the calm red color would serve as an accent. The orange hues of the agate cameo, amber, and carnelian, the reds of the garnet and coral, and the yellowish-greens of the peridot and chrysoberyl cat's eye were distinctive, while the colors of the other gemstones were chosen to provide harmony.
After reform (photos above)
The agate cameo has a gentle curve, and we paid meticulous attention to delicate details, adjusting the angle and height of each stone as if flower petals were gently blooming around the cameo.
After reform (photo above)
To meet the customer's request, we crafted a brooch with a foldable bail, allowing it to be worn as a pendant as well.
When used as a pendant top (photo above)
The pendant bail folded and the brooch pin opened (photo above)
Born from precious jewelry inherited from her father, and brimming with various sentiments, this one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry was realized through a collaboration between these cherished gems, the harmonizing gemstones from 440, and our design expertise.
After delivery, we received a delightful message from the customer: "I wore the cameo with a black top to the opera."
Thank you so much for entrusting us with its creation.
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Reform of a cameo, various gemstones, and 440 gemstones into a pendant top and brooch
Pendant top and brooch
Metal: K18 yellow gold
Gemstones: Agate cameo, garnet, chrysoberyl cat's eye, peridot, carnelian, sapphire (blue, yellow, purple), amber, diamond, pearl, coral
Production period: Approximately 3 months
Design: Kanae Omori