Britt’s Pick: Opal Flower Cuff Bracelet By Jen Volkodav
By Brittany Siminitz | April 13, 2022
"We may be in the midst of a sterling silver renaissance, and if that’s true, then we’re almost certainly on par for a cuff bracelet comeback too.
Judging by the fact that two celebrities wore Tiffany & Co. cuff bracelets (one on each arm!) to the Oscars this year, plus the super-compelling work we’ve seen in sterling lately, there’s no doubt the metal is gearing up to rival yellow gold in fashion jewelry.
So this cuff bracelet from Jen Volkodav is perfect for the occasion, though it doesn’t need the assistance of any trending styles to be convincing.
Spring bursts onto the scene in this one-of-a-kind cuff bracelet, adorned with a field of flowers and vibrant gems. At its center, an Ethiopian opal at just under 10 carats, encircled in golden petals so it appears as lively as jubilant as a sunflower in summer.
“I begin most projects in one of two ways: I either have an idea for a piece, sketch it down, and start looking for the perfect gem or gems. Or I see a gem that speaks to me, buy it—without clue of what I’ll create—and let that stone roll around in my hands and thoughts for a while until I come up with something that showcases it’s unique personality,” Volkodav says.
“With this particular opal it was sort of a lightning-strikes process. I saw the opal and the design hit me immediately—I couldn’t wait to see it in person! I ordered the supplies and started making all the components while I was waiting for the opal to arrive, so I had all the petals and flowers ready to go. But once it arrived and I assembled the layout I felt it needed something extra, so I added the emeralds. Originally the design on the wide cuff only featured gold flowers.”
The emeralds absolutely add that perfect finishing touch that really bring the piece to life, like fresh, dewy blades of grass amid a field of flowers. The gemstones also bring a richness to the cuff, elevating its statement status.
“I feel that throughout the design process, as you plan the layout, as you work and heat the metal, hand-polish the piece, and set the stones, that you ... "
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