My Soul Pendant: A Harmonious Blend of Realism and Symbolism

A Contemporary Jewelry Design by Larisa Zolotova

The inspiration for the My Soul Pendant came from Zolotova's admiration for the hummingbird. Known for its strength and resilience, the hummingbird serves as a symbol for those who have overcome challenges in life. The pendant also features lilies, which represent long-lasting beauty and growth. Together, these symbols depict a timeless soul that achieves spiritual growth through life's trials.

What sets the My Soul Pendant apart is its unique smooth and organic topology. The pendant can be used as a charm for a bracelet, adding a touch of elegance and meaning to any jewelry collection. Crafted from 14K rose gold, the pendant is adorned with sapphires, citrines, and pink tourmalines, adding a vibrant and eye-catching element to the design.

The realization of the My Soul Pendant involved a combination of innovative digital modeling, 3D printing, and traditional jewelry making techniques. The pendant was first created using specialized software for 3D modeling. Then, a 3D model of the pendant was printed using a printing machine. The final step involved the lost wax casting method to cast the wax into 14K rose gold. The pendant was then meticulously hand-polished, soldered, and set with gemstones to achieve its exquisite final form.

Creating the My Soul Pendant presented several challenges for Zolotova. The most demanding aspects were the polishing and CAD modeling. To overcome these challenges, she developed specific polishing tools and utilized various sandblasting techniques. These techniques ensured that every part of the pendant, especially the delicate buds of the lilies, were meticulously finished.

The My Soul Pendant project began in July 2016 and was completed in January 2018 in Carlsbad, USA. Throughout the design process, Zolotova conducted extensive research, studying and utilizing specialized applications such as T-Spline plug-in to Matrox for creating organic forms. The result is a pendant that seamlessly blends contemporary design with classical realism.

Recognized for its exceptional design, the My Soul Pendant was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2018. This prestigious award is given to designs that meet professional and industrial requirements, showcasing innovation, practicality, and aesthetic appeal.

The My Soul Pendant is not just a piece of jewelry; it is a symbol of strength, growth, and beauty. Larisa Zolotova's creation showcases the possibilities of combining cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship, resulting in a timeless and meaningful design.