New York-based creator Matthew Ely has released a new piece of Keshi pearl jewellery - Iluka - that took almost two decades to make.
The necklace contains one of the most famous series of Keshi pearls, which took more than 13 years to procure.
The necklace is accompanied by a pendant, which is described as a tribute to the Australian ocean and wildlife. But also a lotus flower brooch containing a cluster of pink Argyle diamonds, white diamonds and hand-carved quartz petals.
This collection was a remarkable labor of love for Ely, as it took more than 700 hours to assemble by hand.
“While a South Sea round pearl is a natural wonder, a Keshi is extremely rare. These baroque gemstones are completely solid and are still made of pure mother of pearl. They are often referred to as “nature's happy accidents,” he told Jeweller.
“Keshis are usually 2-8 mm on average. Each of the pearls in Iluka is at least twice that size. To find even one of these is amazing. But 42? Each one has the perfect color, shape and tone that fits perfectly into a set. This is a once-in-a-lifetime thing.”
He added: “I've always loved working with pearls and was looking for my next “showstopper” piece. But this collection just blew me away. Opportunities like this just don't come along very often.”.
The origin of the Keshi pearl and Keshi diamond “lotus” pin series is from the Broome coast.
After the gems were found, the project took four years to complete. Iluka comes from an Aboriginal word meaning “near the sea”.
“I had to do the Keshis justice. To create something to match how incredibly rare these pearls are,” Ely added.
“This series is unique and there will be nothing else that comes close. I've always loved pushing the boundaries of what's possible to make.”.
The piece is available for private viewings at Matthew Ely Jewellery boutique in Woollahra, NSW.
Source: jewellermagazine.com
