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Custom Tourmaline Pendant
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For the New Hampshire Jewelry Design Awards one
year, Judi wanted to submit a special jewel to celebrate
the small towns and rural crossroads of New Hampshire. So
she created this stunning tourmaline pendant named "New
Hampshire Crossroads."
The pendant was hand crafted in platinum and gold by a master jeweler and set with four scintillating tourmalines. The center gemstone is a luscious trillium-cut rubellite with a rich fuchsia color. The three smaller gemstones are vibrant blue-green tourmalines. Each gem is securely set in a platinum bezel. Between the platinum rays of the pendant the gold surfaces have a rich, radiant appearance known as "crystallized gold." This magical effect was created by drawing off the alloys in the upper layers of the gold, leaving a layer of shimmering 24kt gold. The bright platinum and crystallized gold create a beautiful contrast.
So how did Judi fare in the design
competition? To find out please read on!
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The back of the pendant is as intricately designed as the front. Three open hearts form a trefoil around a center triangle that frames the back of the rubellite. The settings of the tourmalines are designed to show the color and brilliance of the gemstones even from the rear of the jewel. In short, this pendant is like having two jewels in one! It can be worn showing either the front or the back depending on the wearer's desire. Atop the pendant is a platinum and gold bail inspired by a Japanese torii - a traditional temple gate marking the passage between the mundane and the sacred. A round choker wire or small chain may be passed through the polished yellow gold tube that is cradled by two flowing ribbon-like platinum supports. A side view shows the depth of the pendant and the platinum scrolls set between the rear and front faces. Also note the concave shape of the platinum settings holding the blue-green tourmalines. This concave shape allows the tourmalines to sparkle from both the front and the back of the jewel.
Above is a close-up of the variegated, shimmering surface of the crystallized gold. As with all our jewelry, our hallmark ("BEL") is placed on this handcrafted pendant. The Bijoux hallmark, as well as the precious metal purity marks ("PLAT", "18K" and "22K"), are stamped on a platinum plaque secreted beneath the bail. These hallmarks are your assurance of excellence in craftsmanship and design.
The Story Behind the JewelAs mentioned earlier, this pendant was created by Judi Anderson to enter in a jewelry design competition. The theme for the competition was New Hampshire towns and cities. Judi designed this pendant to celebrate the many small New Hampshire towns that sit where the cross roads come together. So, how did Judi do in the competition? We are happy to report this beautiful pendant crushed it by taking first place in its division! Kudos to Judi! |
Name: Crossroads Pendant |
Cost: | This custom pendant can be recreated with a variety of gemstones and design variations. We are happy to work with you to create a pendant that matches your desires. Please inquire. |
Measurements: | ||
This platinum, 18kt and 22kt gold pendant
measures 1.5" from the top of the bail to the lower bezel set
tourmaline. It is 1" wide.
The rubellite tourmaline is a trillium-cut and weighs 1.07 carats. The three round blue-green tourmalines are 3 millimeters in diameter. |
Gemstone Note: | ||
Many tourmalines are heat treated to improve their color and appearance. You should assume that all tourmalines have been heat treated unless the seller guarantees otherwise. We believe the tourmalines in this pendant have been heat treated. |
A pendant in this style can be created with
the gemstones of your choice. Perhaps a striking
tanzanite, fancy yellow diamonds or a lush green
emerald. The precious metals - 22kt gold, 18kt
gold and platinum - can also be varied. You choose
the gemstones and precious metals and we will do the rest!
To discuss gemstones and design options, please give us a
call (603 624-8672) or send
us an email.
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Jewelry Experts Home Page Bijoux Original Gallery
If you have any questions, suggestions or comments, please contact us at 603 624-8672 or judi@jewelryexpert.com.
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