The Possum Vertebra with Onyx Necklace is a handcrafted sterling silver necklace made in Adelaide, South Australia by Olivia Dryden. It belongs to the Curios Collection, where natural history, memento mori symbolism and careful craftsmanship meet.
The design began with a real possum vertebra, chosen for its small sculptural structure and delicate natural form. Through the moulding and casting process, the vertebra has been recreated in sterling silver, transforming the original specimen into a lasting wearable object.
This necklace is a one-off piece, made as a singular work rather than a repeatable design. The specific combination of possum vertebra forms, onyx and chain details is unique to this necklace.
Onyx adds a dark, grounding contrast to the silver vertebra form, giving the necklace a refined gothic mood. The result is intimate, symbolic and connected to my ongoing interest in natural history, ethical specimen work, memory and preservation.
Materials: Sterling silver and onyx
Process: Each necklace is handmade in small quantities using traditional silversmithing and casting techniques. The original possum vertebra was carefully moulded before being cast in sterling silver. Slight differences in texture, shape, finish and gemstone character should be expected as part of the handmade process.
Dimensions: Necklace length: 44 cm, with 5 cm extension chain.
Each bone form: 2.5 cm.
Explore more: View the Curios Collection or browse more necklaces.
FAQ
Q1: Is the Possum Vertebra with Onyx Necklace made from real bone?
A: The finished necklace is made from sterling silver, not bone. The design began with a real possum vertebra, which was carefully moulded so its natural structure and surface detail could be preserved before being cast in sterling silver.
Q2: Are the animal specimens ethically sourced?
A: Yes. Animal specimens used in Olivia Dryden Jewellery are sourced from animals that have passed from unpreventable causes, and each piece is created with respect for the original specimen.
Q3: Is the Mini Cross Bone & Drop Stud Earrings suitable as a gift?
A:Yes. Each piece is packaged in an Olivia Dryden Jewellery branded velvet pouch and is suited to collectors who appreciate handmade jewellery with story, detail and meaning.
The Possum Vertebra with Onyx Necklace is a handcrafted sterling silver necklace made in Adelaide, South Australia by Olivia Dryden. It belongs to the Curios Collection, where natural history, memento mori symbolism and careful craftsmanship meet.
The design began with a real possum vertebra, chosen for its small sculptural structure and delicate natural form. Through the moulding and casting process, the vertebra has been recreated in sterling silver, transforming the original specimen into a lasting wearable object.
This necklace is a one-off piece, made as a singular work rather than a repeatable design. The specific combination of possum vertebra forms, onyx and chain details is unique to this necklace.
Onyx adds a dark, grounding contrast to the silver vertebra form, giving the necklace a refined gothic mood. The result is intimate, symbolic and connected to my ongoing interest in natural history, ethical specimen work, memory and preservation.
Materials: Sterling silver and onyx
Process: Each necklace is handmade in small quantities using traditional silversmithing and casting techniques. The original possum vertebra was carefully moulded before being cast in sterling silver. Slight differences in texture, shape, finish and gemstone character should be expected as part of the handmade process.
Dimensions: Necklace length: 44 cm, with 5 cm extension chain.
Each bone form: 2.5 cm.
Explore more: View the Curios Collection or browse more necklaces.
FAQ
Q1: Is the Possum Vertebra with Onyx Necklace made from real bone?
A: The finished necklace is made from sterling silver, not bone. The design began with a real possum vertebra, which was carefully moulded so its natural structure and surface detail could be preserved before being cast in sterling silver.
Q2: Are the animal specimens ethically sourced?
A: Yes. Animal specimens used in Olivia Dryden Jewellery are sourced from animals that have passed from unpreventable causes, and each piece is created with respect for the original specimen.
Q3: Is the Mini Cross Bone & Drop Stud Earrings suitable as a gift?
A:Yes. Each piece is packaged in an Olivia Dryden Jewellery branded velvet pouch and is suited to collectors who appreciate handmade jewellery with story, detail and meaning.
