14CT SOLID GOLD OPAL SET DOLPHIN & CALF PENDANT
Christine Alexander Fine Jewellery
Picture this: a breathtaking 14ct Yellow Gold Dolphin mother and calf pendant, adorned with mesmerizing blue Opal, exquisitely detailed and lovingly crafted. This substantial piece, weighing approximately 8.3g, boasts dimensions of 40mm x 28.58mm. The mama dolphin's eye and tail feature laser-etched textures, creating a stunning contrast of matte and polished surfaces. The calf, also inlaid with Opal, nestles snugly against its mother's flank.
This pendant isn't just jewellery; it's a work of art—a perfect choice for a push present, a gift for a marine enthusiast, or a birthday celebration, especially if it falls in October. Please note that these handcrafted treasures are made to order, so expect a 4-6 week delivery time. Layaway payments are available, and organised on a weekly or monthly basis; feel free to reach out for details, and PayPal is the preferred method of payment.
Now, let's dive into the symbolism of this magnificent creature. Dolphins have long been emblematic of salvation, transformation, speed, and sea power. They carry echoes of love, even symbolizing Christ as a saviour in Christian iconography. Greek, Cretan, and Etruscan myths depict dolphins as the noble rescuers of gods, heroes, and souls, ferrying them to the Isles of the Blessed. A fascinating twist involves Dionysus, or Bacchus in Roman mythology, who purportedly transformed inebriated sailors into dolphins and himself into one to transport Cretan dolphin-worshippers to Delphi. Intertwined with an anchor, the dolphin symbolizes prudence—a burst of speed held in check.
Shifting our focus to Opals, these gems have an illustrious history. The oldest Opal mines, located in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, once reigned supreme until the rise of Australian Opals in 1922. Today, a staggering 97% of the world's Opals hail from the Land Down Under.
Opals, as you might know, flaunt a kaleidoscope of colours that could make even Picasso envious. Among the most enchanting is the Blue Opal, ranging from the rich teal hues of Peruvian Opals to the delicate shades of light blue Opal. For the longest time, Opal stood as the sole birthstone for October until the addition of Tourmaline in 1952. And if you're a Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces, take note— Opal is your Zodiac stone, aligning your watery nature with its captivating colours, imparting confidence and assurance.
Peruvian Blue Opal, a national treasure, has earned its place of honour in South America. But beyond the Andes, Oregon's Owyhee Opals have recently surfaced, revealing soothing pastel blues. Remember, precious Opals dazzle with a play of colours, whereas common Opals lack this spectacular display. So, what makes the Opals turn blue? It's all about the size of silica spheres within the Opal—smaller spheres result in stunning blue hues, while larger ones yield red or orange Opals. Peruvian Opals, on the other hand, owe their blue-green charm to secondary copper inclusions.
But what truly sets Blue Opal apart? Its unique iridescence, known as "adularescence," is a trait shared only with Moonstone and occasionally Rose Quartz. Blue Opal isn't just a gem; it's a timeless marvel that has captured hearts for centuries.