Gray Freshwater Pearl Necklace with Blister Pearl, Gold

The shape and colors of this flat blister pearl made me think of storm clouds. Silvery gray freshwater rice pearls add to that image. I used little faceted onyx beads in between the pearls, and added two 18K gold round beads on each side of the focal pearl. I also added a gold bead on top and bottom of the focal pearl, and hung it from an 18K gold rondelle bead. The sterling silver clasp is hand made and hammered. The focal pearl has an amazing luster to it, and features a little round pearl that looks like a moon (or sun) peeking out from the clouds. I believe this is the nucleus of the pearl. The gray rice pearls show pink luster here and there when the light shines on them. The last picture shows the back of the focal pearl; the colors are lighter and less intense in real life.

SIZE: The necklace is about 19 inches long. The focal pearl measures about 25x15mm. The rice pearls are about 7x5mm.

MATERIALS:  Flat Baroque Freshwater Pearl, Freshwater Rice Pearls, Black Onyx, 18K gold spacer beads, Sterling silver, stainless steel stringing wire

PROPERTIES OF STONES (information compiled from various sources): Pearls are associated with sincerity, loyalty, purity and truth. The pearl is one of June's birthstones. Onyx is said to promote strength, steadfastness and stamina. It also is supposed to ease grief, enhance self control and encourage happiness and good fortune.

This is an original piece of jewelry designed and handcrafted by Barbara Kay Bureker in my SW Washington studio.  All work and images ©2014-2021 by Barbara Kay Jewelry.