Stone Cluster Disc Necklace

This gemstone cluster pendant necklace combines freshwater pearl, blue flash labradorite and lavender chalcedony for a unique one of a kind piece.

• Materials: Freshwater pearl, labradorite, lavender chalcedony, and solid Argentium sterling silver
• Pendant size: Approx. 1.14" (29 mm) round
• Freshwater pearl: 11 mm coin shaped pearl
• Labradorite: 9 mm smooth round stone with bright blue flash
• Lavender chalcedony: 2.5 carat freeform gemstone
• Chain length: Adjustable from 18" to 20"
• Chain: Completely handmade sterling silver chain with individually welded and formed oval links
• Closure: Sterling silver lobster claw clasp with handmade extender chain
• Weight: 23 grams
• Finish: Polished chain with oxidized and polished pendant
• Pendant is removable and chain can be worn separately
• One of a kind + ready to ship

I started this pendant by making a substantial sterling silver disc and hammering it into shape. I set three very different gemstones across the surface, each in its own custom bezel setting, and then filled the spaces around them with little silver balls. I love the combination of the soft freshwater pearl, lavender chalcedony and labradorite. From some angles the labradorite looks like a simple gray stone, but as you move it, a vibrant blue flash appears across the surface.

I wanted the finished pendant to feel very streamlined, so rather than adding a traditional bail coming out of the top, I soldered a tube bail onto the back of the disc. I really like the simplicity of having the three gemstone cluster contained within that circular shape without adding another visible element above it.

The lavender chalcedony is the only translucent stone in the cluster, so I added a small cutout in the back of the pendant directly behind it. It allows a little light to come through the stone and gives the chalcedony some extra luminosity. It is also just a subtle little detail that makes the back of the pendant more interesting.

I oxidized the pendant because I loved what the darker contrast did around all of those little silver balls and gemstone settings. After oxidizing it, I polished the raised silver back to a bright finish. That combination really brings out the dimension, with bright polished silver on the surface and darker oxidation settling into the recessed areas.

I also knew I did not want to put this pendant on a thin premade chain. I wanted something with a little more substance and character, but I did not want the chain competing with the pendant. I made this one completely by hand using tiny round silver wire links. I connected and permanently welded each link closed, then formed every one individually into an oval shape.

The finished chain feels substantial and sturdy without being overly heavy, and the small links allow the hidden tube bail to slide beautifully along it. I loved this chain so much when I finished it that I immediately made another one.

The pendant can be removed, so you can wear this handmade chain by itself or use it with other pendants. You can also move the gemstone pendant onto another chain if you want a different length or look. I think the two are especially beautiful together, with the simple polished handmade chain balancing all of the texture, color and detail in the pendant.