Forged white gold and tanzanite pendant commission

Forged white gold pendant with pear tanzanite

We've been working on this beautiful royal blue tanzanite pendant over the last few weeks. It was made for a customer who had seen some of our previous forged Twist pendant designs, including an earlier tanzanite pendant commission. The pear-shaped tanzanite is set in a forged white gold setting, which curves around to cup the stone.

David sketched the design to refine the curves and proportions. A model was forged from sterling silver to perfect the form before work on the final piece was started.

The tanzanite and white gold Twist pendant was hand forged from 18 carat white gold bar, which was carefully hammered to taper and shape the metal. The forged white gold form was then filed to remove any hammer marks and create a smooth finish. It was then mounted in setter's wax and held securely in a vice for setting.

Making a hand forged white gold pendant

 

Making a hand forged white gold pendant

 

Making a hand forged white gold pendant

 

Making a hand forged white gold pendant

The finished pendant is minimal and elegant. It's flowing lines echo the shape of the pear tanzanite, while the warm grey tone of white gold creates a beautiful contrast with the vivid purple-blue tanzanite.