My commission brooch is finally finished, and it has been delivered to the customer. Phew! As I posted last week, it’s been a bit of a mammoth task. I’ve gone through periods of hating the sight of it, but once it was oxidised to emphasise the texture and lettering, then polished back to the silver, I was actually very pleased with it. So was the customer, which is obviously the most important thing.
This is the first time I have used separate components to construct a brooch pin and clasp. In the past, I have just used an all-in-one unit, but I felt that would be too clumsy for this design. I bought the pin and hinge, but made the catch, and a tiny rivet to hold the pin in place, myself.
I think I’d do this again. Although it’s a bit fiddly, I prefer the finished look, which is much more elegant than the components I’ve used before.
For those who are wondering, ‘grifol’ is the Occitan word for holly. The brooch was designed as a gift for a lady who sings in an Occitan language choir, called Grifol. Hence the holly leaf, and the lettering.
The holly tree is traditionally associated with the winter months, so very appropriate for a January gift.
If you have an idea for a unique piece of jewellery, I’m always happy to discuss commissions. You can get in touch by using the contact form at the top of the page, or via my shop.
