This design is adapted from tiny elaborations in the borders in the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript of the Gospels created in approximately 800 CE. The Book of Kells is justly famous as one of the most intricate and beautiful examples of Celtic art.
It can be seen as either an abstract design combining the spirals, curves, and circles characteristic of some of the earliest Celtic designs, or- with a bit of imagination- as a stylized human figure whose outstretched arms curve into the spirals on either side. The optional embellishments include garnet (my favorite!) which to many symbolizes passion; malachite, whose green symbolizes abundance; or rose quartz, for enduring love.
This design is available as a pendant or pin, either with or without a semiprecious cabochon-cut stone.
The original design was hand-carved in wax and cast in silver. Each heart is cast in sterling silver using the lost wax process. I make each bail out of sterling silver wire, while the pin components are made of nickel silver for added strength. The bezels that hold the stones are also sterling, and the stones semiprecious; the sides of the bezel cup are carefully burnished in to hold the stone snugly and securely, without glue, in the ancient manner. The detail is accented with patination using liver of sulphur, a traditional technique that darkens the metal, then the surfaces are hand-polished to a soft, brushed shine. The heart is 1.25 inch (32 mm) wide and just over 1 inch (25 mm) tall; the stones are 0.365 inch (5 mm).
Each heart comes in a small box and includes an anti-tarnish square and a small flyer about the design.
