Phoenix Heart Pendant Commission

Fiona commissioned me to make a piece for her daughter (who was dealing with some mental health issues) featuring a phoenix, an amethyst, and a garnet, with the Latin phrase “nec aspera terrent” on the back. She provided some images, including one from a puzzle that she and her daughter did together years ago. I created a heart-shaped pendant with that puzzle image filling the shape with the stones I sourced as the eye and embers below the phoenix. The pendant is cloisonné with silver wires, leaded and unleaded enamels, and gold leaf accents, and the setting is textured silver.

“I gave E the pendant the other evening. She instantly recognised the likeness of the pendant to the jigsaw without me even pointing it out. She was moved to tears and put the pendant on straight away. I think she loves it – success. Thank you so much.” - Fiona