Climbing Vine Pendant

This year I'm challenged to create at least one piece of jewelry each week that pushes me try something new, or practice a technique that I am struggling with.  The necklace I created for Week 1, "Climbing Vine"  was conceived so that I could use the new tools that Santa brought and practice soldering posts.  I also wanted to design something outside my usual style.

Since I use recycled materials wherever possible, my designs always start by pulling open all the supply drawers, to see what's on hand today. In the scrap box I found a few 1" copper squares, and the bead drawer offered up beautiful Czech crystal beads.  I don't usually do floral designs, but I knew that's what I wanted to do with the treasures I found that day.  Blossoms and leaves were sawn from 20ga sheet copper. I engraved the detail using a flex shaft and engraving bit, dapped the centers, and shaped them with pliers.  Pieces are connected using soldered posts and holes, a very simple and effective connection.  Cleaner than jump rings, these connections are hidden, and they allow each piece to move independently.  They form a pretty curve when worn.  I like this design a lot, and will be developing a Spring line around it.