Estelle’s love

This project is very dear to my heart, I am sorry to report that my very good friend Estelle has passed on Dec. 2019. We were always trying to connect, but life and her illness made it difficult, I couldn’t get her own words on this project. So in her honor I am sharing this story with you.

Estelle came to me with the intention to make something special for both her grown daughter’s Debbie ( who I am also privileged to share a friendship with) & Michele. Their father had passed away some time before, they both loved him dearly. Estelle asked me to melt down his ring that he wore till his last days and make two pendants.

After talking with her she gave me some basic ideas and then I sketched out a design based on my jewelry experience and knowledge of her intentions.

The sketch was with one butterfly beginning to fly behind the rim and the other perched on the rim. The one flying away was symbolic of their father passing on to heaven and the perched butterfly was symbolic of the girls still here. Yet they are still touching and connected.

I used mother of pearl background to highlight these images, while also creating versatility for daily wear. I additionally carved each girls initials into the sides of the pendants.

As I look back on this project and creating these pieces for Estelle… I remember feeling the energy of her beloved passed husband blessing my hands as they worked, things went way easier than I expected.

Now, the message is even more palpable as I type for Estelle…I see the circle framing the pendant symbolizing her strength, love and fervor which always was tying everything together.

We will miss you Estelle, but your spirit is still the place we gain strength and comfort.

-GRACE