Saskia’s story is a little different from my usual clients’ stories. In this instance, my husband and I were the client; commissioning a bespoke piece of jewellery as a very special gift for his sister Saskia, to mark a big birthday. It was fun to be on both sides of the commissioning coin for a change (turns out we are very easy going clients, ha!) and create a meaningful necklace for someone we love, to treasure forever.
Saskia has been a champion of JHW for many years and has a selection of lovely pieces but this was the first time we had created a one-of-a-kind piece for her, as a gift from us. We listened for hints and worked out that Saskia has a soft spot for Opals. Fast forward to the months leading up to her 30th birthday and we began to think about the kind of piece she might like to wear. It needed to be different to her existing jewellery but still complement her style. We settled on a version of my Chaos Hex Fan pendant which I would set with an Australian Opal.
This is my first ever opal piece and I was excited to embark on the project. We looked at various stones from one of our trusted suppliers and eventually selected a 5mm round fine opal. Its delicate iridescent colours of oceans, moonbeams and sunshine are just magical! I decided the pendant needed to be 18ct yellow gold as this just looked gorgeous with the opal. On examining the opal I realised that setting it on a hidden 18ct white gold base would bring out its natural colours even more, so that’s precisely what I did.
I am so pleased with the result - and wondering if more opals should feature in the JHW collections in 2025, what do you think?
We caught up with Saskia to ask about her new opal necklace.
What were your first impressions on opening the box?
My eyes were drawn to the beautiful opal, I was very mesmerised by the enchanting colours and how delicate yet striking the piece was. It’s such a stunning necklace, I feel so lucky to receive such a thing!
How do you feel about your new necklace?
I wear it everyday - it makes me feel happy. Every time I see it when I look in the mirror I can’t help looking at how beautiful it is. It’s so unique and special to me. Wearing it reminds me how much love and thought has gone into making it; it’s more than just a material thing, it represents thought, love and kindness.
I keep thinking how wonderful it is that someone who loves me designed this and knew that it would make me so happy!
What is it about opals that you’re drawn to?
Opals have been my favourite stone since I was a little girl. Something about seeing all the colours of the rainbow, iridescence, and sparkles that project all the colours captivates me. When you look at a diamond you have to move it to see all the colours reflected, but with an opal they are just there. It’s like someone caught a rainbow and put it in this tiny little rock for us to enjoy. They are ethereal, it’s like they could have come from another planet.
