Natural earth-mined sapphire pendant in argentium silver and 24 karat gold

A 5 mm dark blue natural sapphire shines from the center of this cup-shaped pendant, trailing discs of 24 karat gold. Minimalist and rustic at the same time, the Solar Eclipse pendant is suitable for everyday wear but also striking enough for a fancy occasion. The delicate 18 inch chain can be lengthened or shortened on request. The curves of this pendant were achieved organically. I started with a free-form disc of argentium sterling silver sheet. By hammering the disc starting at the center, I stretched the metal so that it gradually rounded out, achieving a cup or bowl shape. The sapphire (approximately 5 mm wide, about 3/4 carat) is a deep dark blue with flashes of lighter blue in the light. I gave it a bezel setting and added a generous scattering of 24 karat gold discs. The sapphire is earth-mined, not lab-made. It has been heated, but no other treatments were applied. I use only argentium sterling silver in my jewelry. Argentium sterling silver is a hypoallergenic alloy of sil