Siobhán

Crescent moon pendant with olivine.

3.5 x 3.5 cm

Olivine is a significant rock-forming mineral; classified as a magnesium-iron silicate, it constitutes a substantial portion of the Earth's mantle. Its characteristic green to yellow-green hue is determined by the ratio of magnesium to iron within its crystal structure, and thanks to olivine, we can hold a mineral originating from the Earth's deep layers in our hands. Olivine crystals are found in rocks such as basalt and other volcanic formations, and its gem-quality variety is known as peridot. Symbolically, olivine is associated with renewal, vitality, abundance, protection, and the ability to let go of what no longer serves us. A crescent moon with downward-pointing tips is a powerful symbol of femininity, intuition, the inner world, and a connection to natural cycles.

Since ancient times, the moon has been linked to the rhythm of time, the tides, fertility, and the changing nature of the world; its phases provided one of the earliest methods for humans to track the regularity of the world around them. When paired with olivine, lunar symbolism merges with a stone deeply connected to the Earth itself. The moon represents transformation, cycles, and intuition, while olivine brings the green color of life and evokes the image of creation within the planet's depths. The piece thus unites two opposing yet interconnected forces: the ever-changing sky and the solid earth beneath our feet. It symbolizes the closing of old cycles, renewal, and a return to one's center.

The piece is handcrafted from surgical steel, using a tin-silver alloy for the joints. It requires maintenance similar to silver—occasional polishing. The more the piece is worn, the better, as it polishes itself through contact with clothing and the wearer's skin. The metal is durable and free of nickel and heavy metals. The jewelry can be worn constantly, even in water; however, it is advisable to dry it off afterwards and maintain it more frequently.