It's always the best feeling when I get to work with longtime friends, especially when their milestone anniversaries come around. For this piece my friend (and now Client) reached out with an idea for his wife to celebrate their 30th anniversary. Well, I don't make a lot of crosses or symbolic pieces that are more on the literal side. However, this Client was very open to my interpretation, or more-so my ideas on how to incorporate my signature aesthetic into a more literal symbolic cross. We started off on the journey and boy, was it fun!
A rippling cross
Starting with the design, the Client knew he wanted a cross and really wanted to incorporate the signature Kristen Baird® rippling texture that he’s seen across my work. This required a lot of experimentation on my end. I started with a larger form done with my very specific pattern and then, by hand, started slicing and chipping away to create the perfect cross motif.
Sentimental details
Once we got the perfect cross form set, it came down to the more specific details. This Client wanted 3 diamonds, each one to symbolize every 10 years of their marriage and to represent the number three for the Holy Trinity. Symbolic and sentimental details are always a bonus when incorporated just right! We also knew that a bail connection would be key, so that the recipient could wear this piece on her many different styles of chains. Then on the back we decided to incorporate an inscription of the couple’s initials and the date of the marriage. Again, as you know, I love these personal details!
Size matters
As you can see, this cross represents this couple’s journey so well. I love when personal memories, sentiments and relevant details can be reapplied into a design that is so symbolic and representational. It makes everything that much more special! Oh, and the size...I can't believe I forgot to mention the size! It's the perfect size for daily wear - not too small, not too big. It’s just right!
Do you have a milestone coming up? Reach out for more information to learn how our commission process works. Or better yet, visit our commissions tab on the website! We'd love to work with you on creating something unique and special for your journey!
