Aurum

ONE-OF-A-KIND | JEWELRY

Neckpiece | 24K Gold woven wire cloth, 18K Gold, Diamond |
140mm neck diameter, 230mm drop length, 50mm and 65mm gold mesh leaves, 2mm diamond convert dimensions to inches

Aurum is the Latin name for gold. Gold was likely present during the formation of our solar system, and it is thought to be a form of stardust!

Pure gold commands respect. Gold has been classified as the noble metal, coveted throughout the ages for its malleability and its rich, deep reddish yellow color, it remains untarnished and unaltered throughout the ages.

My inspiration for this piece came from the material itself. I imagined pure gold, woven into wire cloth, would be a pleasure to work with, but rarely have my expectations been surpassed so wildly. The raw beauty of the metal, soft and pliable in my hands, was irresistible, and inviting to the touch.

The 24K gold mesh, composed of fine wires the diameter of human hair, is manipulated by hand, and is crumpled and pressed like a woven cloth, in order to achieve the desired depth of texture. A hand-forged 18K yellow gold cable maintains the structure and integrity of the neck piece, and a proprietary hidden sliding mechanism allows the cables to open so one can put piece on, and close it securely around the neck. 

Through my work on this piece, I feel connected to the ancient traditions of the world -- in a contemporary context. I become aware of my role as a vehicle of transformation, from its present state, only altering the way it is perceived. After all, the gold will outlive not only the piece of jewelry, but will also outlive all of us. My hope is that the recipient will make or find her own rich connection to the piece, so that her story will be passed on, and treasured as a precious gift for the next recipient.  

This piece is often appreciated for its beauty; however, upon closer examination, it provokes intrigue about the materials. Because 24k gold mesh is an industrial material, this stands in stark contrast to its status as the 'ultimate' precious metal, and for this reason, the piece also elicits awe.

The form evokes the organic lines of a gold vine, or stem; or perhaps a trailing leaf or flower glistening in the sun. The contrast between the precision of the clasp mechanism, the well defined line of the structure, and the uneven contour and layered texture of the design makes this piece truly one-of-a-kind. 

The closure is highlighted with a champagne color diamond/exclamation point detail.