The Turning Of The Fagus/Snow at Crater Lake (Neckpiece)

Inspired by Tasmania’s iconic Crater Lake at Cradle Mountain and the annual turning of the endemic Nothofagus Gunnii. During April and May the leaves of the Fagus begin to turn, displaying a spectacular show of autumn colour, often combined with dustings of snow. The native, deciduous beech is found nowhere else on the planet, making this annual occurrence a uniquely Tasmanian alpine bushwalking experience.

Hand manufactured in 18ct yellow, white, rose and green gold, the branch style neckpiece curls around the wearer mimicking the autumnal turning of foliage through the use of graduated gold on hand carved leaves (yellow gold branch with green gold, yellow gold and rose gold leaves).

Central to the neckpiece is a freeform natural Australian Parti Sapphire which has been custom cut to mimic the outline of Crater Lake at Cradle Mountain, Tasmania. Surrounding the main stone, and scattered along the piece are puddles of grain set white diamonds referencing highland snow fall.

This piece was made over the course of many months and was manufactured specifically as an entrant in the 2021 Jewellers Association of Australia Australasian Jewellery Design Awards. I was thrilled and honoured to have been selected as one of five finalists in the precious metal category.

Selection as a finalist demonstrates the high level of detail and manufacturing skills in this piece. It also highlights my design skills amongst a very high calibre of entrants. To be honoured this way amongst my peers is extremely rewarding.

This piece is the perfect statement, it is bold yet delicate and feminine - a perfect tribute to our Tasmanian home. 

  • Diamonds:.58ct RBC FGVVS
  • Sapphire (Australian parti sapphire, untreated): 11.7 x 7.3mm 2.07ct (Custom cut by Laura Phyllis)
  • Gold: 18ct Yellow, White, Rose & Green gold. 

Purchase enquiries welcome to Handmark Gallery, Hobart. 

Email: hobart@handmark.com.au 

 

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