Rose gold pendant with Nopal opal gems, front view of the organic composition

Opal Nopal

An 18-carat rose gold pendant, developed in organic shapes and coloured gemstones inspired by the prickly pear
Preliminary design of opal nopal pendant

The creation

The Opal Nopal rose gold pendant with rubies develops a vertical composition gathered around a large central element, flanked by organic volumes and gemstones of different colours. Opal Ethiopian, rubies, olivine e quartz yellow sapphires introduce chromatic accents distributed along the profile. The textured surfaces of the gold catch and fragment the light, while the alternation between masses, openings and details creates a compact yet visually dynamic presence on the body.

Explore all the creations in this category or, if you are curious, discover the world of gemstones in the Gemstone Encyclopaedia. Dedicated insights into the characteristics, colour varieties and gemmological aspects of the stones can guide a bespoke project.

Preliminary design of opal nopal pendant

The creation

The Opal Nopal rose gold pendant with rubies develops a vertical composition gathered around a large central element, flanked by organic volumes and gemstones of different colours. Opal Ethiopian, rubies, olivine e quartz yellow sapphires introduce chromatic accents distributed along the profile. The textured surfaces of the gold catch and fragment the light, while the alternation between masses, openings and details creates a compact yet visually dynamic presence on the body.

Explore all the creations in this category or, if you are curious, discover the world of gemstones in the Gemstone Encyclopaedia. Dedicated insights into the characteristics, colour varieties and gemmological aspects of the stones can guide a bespoke project.

A reference can evolve into a new form

From an archival creation, a new direction can be born, redesigned around the proportions, gemstones and character of the individual.

The initial meeting serves to clarify references, design direction and feasibility, without requiring an immediate decision.

Personalised jewellery

Opal Nopal belongs to my archive of created works and demonstrates how a previous reference can be transformed into a new line of research. Each project is redesigned by considering the person, proportions, materials, use and wearability, without repeating a previously executed solution. In my atelier in Altamura, I oversee this transition directly, so that the new piece of jewellery develops its own formal and technical identity.

From inspiration to design

Inspiration

The project stems from images selected by clients in my Creations gallery and, in particular, from the creation of the ring Opal Nopal. The reference to the prickly pear has been reworked into a new pendant configuration, without literal replication of the original solution. I worked on the relationship between organic forms, bud arrangement and volume distribution, creating an independent result that is consistent with the request.

Materials and finishes

I developed the pendant through 3D modelling and prototyping to check proportions, heights and thicknesses prior to crafting it in 18-carat rose gold. The manufacturing process involved lost-wax casting, prong and flush setting, polishing and quality control. Rubies, peridots and citrine quartzes are incorporated into the composition as distinct accents, whilst the metal structure maintains continuity and stability among the various elements.

Certifications and registrations

Technical expertise, professional registrations and qualifications have accompanied the development of my work in the goldsmithing and jewellery field.

Awards and recognition

Since 2009, I have guided private clients and couples through the creation of their jewellery in my atelier. Over thirty years of goldsmithing experience guide every stage: listening, design, workshop, quality control, and delivery. Awards, mentions, and accolades tell the story of the artisanal, technical, and creative journey that underpins my work. Each badge links to an in-depth article on the blog.

How is a piece of jewellery born?

A piece of jewellery can be inspired by a specific request or by a story worth cherishing. It is Custom when it starts with a shape, a stone, a material or a style to be crafted to measure. It becomes narrative When transforming a memory, symbol or personal passage into substance, proportion and meaning. Wedding rings, rings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets can follow both paths. In the Jewellery section, you can discover which one best suits your idea.
Portrait of Antonio Colonna, master goldsmith, in his workshop

Do you want to start from a creation like this?

Whether you wish to start from an archive creation or a natural reference, I can guide you through the development of a new bespoke piece of jewellery, consistent with your idea.

The initial meeting is to clarify desires, materials, structure, timelines, and feasibility. It doesn't require an immediate decision.