Detail Views of the Sterling Silver Dragon Face Pendant

This Sterling Silver Dragon Face Pendant with Red Garnet is created through a traditional studio process rooted in hand craftsmanship rather than commercial production. The work begins in wax, carved entirely by hand instead of relying on CAD‑generated patterns or machine‑cut models. This approach allows the dragon’s expression and sculptural presence to develop organically, shaped through direct touch and the intuitive decisions that guide my larger sculptural practice.
The pendant is cast using the ancient lost‑wax casting method, a technique used by artists and silversmiths for thousands of years. The hand‑carved wax is invested, burned out, and replaced with molten sterling silver, capturing every detail of the original carving. As a studio artist, I complete each stage myself—wax carving, spruing, investing, casting, and finishing—ensuring the pendant remains a true work of fine art jewelry rather than a mass‑produced object.
The red garnet eye is set using a traditional hammer‑set technique, carved with an internal bearing that locks the stone securely in place. This method requires accuracy and a deep understanding of metal behavior, allowing the stone to become an integral part of the sculpture rather than an added ornament.
This pendant continues my exploration of Tatsu, the animating force behind my dragon work. Through wax carving, lost‑wax casting, and hand finishing, the piece reflects the values of the artist‑silversmith: precision, patience, and a commitment to authentic, non‑commercial studio craft.