ABALONE SHELL GOLD POST EARRINGS BY BARBARA GARWOOD

ABALONE SHELL GOLD POST EARRINGS BY BARBARA GARWOOD

ABALONE SHELL EARRINGS BY BARBARA GARWOOD 

GOLD FILIGREE

POST

Barbara Garwood's background in textile design and her extensive travels to Asia led to the creation of her distinctive style which combines Russian and Chinese influences. An art form dating back over 1000 years with techniques very similar to those used to create FabergŽ eggs and other treasures for the Tsars. Decades of apprenticeship are required to develop the skill to complete either the filigree or the enamel work.Therefore, this piece is the collaboration of two master artisans. The fine filigree work is hand-shaped from delicate sterling silver wire using tweezers and enormous patience. It is then thickly plated with pure gold, creating what is known as 24k vermeil. After a firing at 1700¼F, the enamel artist begins her work applying finely ground powders which are blended for the perfect color. A second firing at 1500¼F turns the powder into a high-gloss glass. Finally, magnificent gemstones are handset to create this regal finished piece.

Each of Barbara's pieces is made of sterling silver and bears the initals "BG" and the mark "925".

Each of these pieces are made by hand and can take up to 4 days to complete.

Each artist has been extensively trained in the basic techniques and over time they become considered master craftsmen. Because the filigree and enameling skills are totally different abilities, an artist is trained in only one or the other. As a result some items require two artisans to complete a single piece.

Items that are out of stock may take 3 to 4 weeks to deliver.