This kinetic statement necklace/shield/breast plate is my stylized take on a flying fox fruit bat. It was hand fabricated from sterling silver sheet and wire and is a one-of-a-kind piece of wearable art jewelry.
It features a Native Silver cabochon set in a fancy bezel as the bats head. This cabochon was cabbed by my partner and 2nd generation Lapidarist, Maxamillion Avila. I also set two tiny, rose cut pyrite cabochons on each wing, also in fancy bezels.
The wings were cut from 22 gauge sterling silver sheet, then I added texture to them to resemble veins using found leaves and pressing them into the silver using my rolling mill. I then created it's winged arm bones from sterling wire.
It's body was cut from 20 gauge sterling silver sheet and I added texture to create the look of it's furry little body.
I hand fabricated the tiny ears and feet and added hinges to attach the wings to the body, then soldered it's ears and feet to the hinge pins. The wings, eras and feet all move.
I left more oxidation on the bat and gave it a soft, brushed satin polish.
The bat alone, without the chain or stone weighs just under 2 ounces in silver, and finished weight of the necklace is 2.3 ounces. I wanted this piece to be large and sturdy enough to last, but not so heavy it pulls on the neck. I'm so happy with how it turned out.
This is a large statement sized necklace. The wings measure 7.5" wide and the center body part is just over 2.5" tall.
The chain attaches to rings where the bats claw thumbs are and is textured oval sterling silver, and is adjustable by hooking the clasp to any of the links. I added a swivel style lobster claps for added security.
All Sterling Silver.
Please think of this necklace as a piece of wearable art and treat it as such. See my jewelry care section for proper handling and care of my jewelry. If properly handled and cared for, this necklace will age beautifully. I sealed the darker areas of patina with a finish seal and polished the higher areas of silver with a museum grade wax called Renaissance Wax.. This helps to keep the fine and sterling from oxidizing too quickly.
Ready to ship and will be fully insured for total value, and come gift boxed and packaged with care. Please be aware that if you aren't going to be home when this package is scheduled to arrive, it's best to make arrangements ahead of time.
***All my jewelry photos are taken in natural, outdoor light. No filters, no touch ups, no enhancements or manipulations of any kind are used, so as to represent each and every piece as close to reality as possible.
Payment plans are available via Shop Pay Installments at checkout.
