This handcrafted, bead embroidered collar was inspired by the checkerboard cabochons that flank the central focal glass cabochon. I wanted to explore the themes of black and white the difference in texture of metal and feathers, chain and ribbon.
Other than the Dichroic Glass central cabochon and the black and white checkerboard cabochons, the piece is embellished with opals, pearls, onyx, volcanic lava beads, moonstone, sterling silver and Swarovski crystals. The edges are fringed with a double layer of white and iridescent dagger drops. The centre has drops of pearls, Swarovski crystal and feathers, sterling silver chain, Silk Ribbons and a silver floral drop right in the centre.
The clasp is a silver Swarovski crystal button, surrounded by white and iridescent Swarovski bicones. A sterling silver heart completes the loop and hook closure.
It is an heirloom piece, all hand crafted, each bead individually stitched (or in the case of the central focals , glued) onto backing fabric. The entire piece is then backed with ultrasuede, which is a beautifully soft but resilient man-made fabric that does not fray.