A special customer commissioned me to design a dragon pendant around a stunning Australian Koroite Boulder Opal. Blue and green bands of opalescence arch across this remarkable 42 carat stone. I usually create one of a kind designs on speculation so there is a bit more pressure when I am designing a piece for a commission but this project has been fun.
This photo blog shows the slow progression and changes to the design during the creation process. Because the following progress photos are taken quickly on my design table, they are not glamorous. Going upstairs to the light box would completely derail my flow.
The dragon changes directions
Beginning wax sketch for Dragon’s Tear Opal Pendant
Rough wings are positioned and I position the head.
Dragon Heads Roll!
Dragon Heads Roll!
I work on wing ridges and belly plates .
Wings are removed as I reposition the tail down around the stone.
I work on legs, claws and tedious scales.
Playing with a tourmaline accent stone option.
I started work on this piece in late August. My show schedule allows me little creative time but at the end of September, I work intensively over three days. The dragon is still not finished and next week I will curve and define the jaw line and add the final foot and claw to the back side. The claws will ultimately be refined and I will figure out a good balance point, hidden between the dragon’s wings through which the chain will slide. It’s past time to decide on the accent stone for this one of a kind dragon. I hope to post the completed piece, cast in 18K gold in our December newsletter. Stay Tuned!
Back side of the dragon minus one leg and claw.
Dragon’s Tear Pendant nearing completion.