Green Sea Turtle Pendant

Green Sea Turtle Necklace

Fine silver. Cloisonne. Champleve. Color – any available. Also available in 18k gold upon request.
Delivered in its own rosewood box for safe keeping.

A Genuine Pacific Silvercloth pouch is provided for tarnish free storage.

Comes with a 1mm, 16- or 18-inch, Italian sterling silver serpentine chain.
(Please specify length in the order notes at checkout.)

Green Sea Turtle Pendant

The Green Sea Turtle Pendant is a breathtaking piece of fine jewelry, meticulously created using the ancient techniques of cloisonné and champlevé enamelwork. This stunning sea turtle pendant captures the essence of the majestic green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), a symbol of resilience, longevity, and harmony with the ocean.

Crafted by a master jewelry artist Shirley Matteson, this pendant is an exquisite fusion of art and craftsmanship, showcasing a combination of vibrant green tones, delicate inlaid gold work, and intricate textures. The pendant features a lifelike representation of a green sea turtle, its form rendered in silver, giving it a luminous glow that accentuates the teals of the enamelwork.

Sea Turtle Pendant Design

The turtle’s shell is the focal point of this piece, with individual scutes meticulously outlined in fine gold wires, a hallmark of the cloisonné technique. These gold partitions create defined compartments, each filled with rich, multicolored enamel. The artist has chosen a palette of deep emerald, jade, seafoam, and aquamarine tones, mimicking the natural hues found in a green sea turtle’s carapace. Subtle variations in shading and transparency give the shell a sense of dimension and realism, as though the turtle is caught mid-swim, reflecting the shimmering ocean light above.

The champlevé technique is employed to enhance the turtle’s flippers and head. Instead of gold wire cells, these sections are carved into the silver of the metal base itself, creating recesses that are then filled with enamel. Delicate gold wires, deep enamel tones, and engraving bring out fine details, such as the subtle scale pattern on the turtle’s head and the delicate texture of its flippers. The result is a textured pendant that brings the sea turtle to life on the front and back of the pendant.

Sea Turtle Jewelry Making Techniques

The cloisonné and champlevé enameling methods used in this pendant require extraordinary precision and skill. The artist begins by shaping the turtle’s form in gold, carefully sculpting every curve and contour. The gold wires for the cloisonné work are meticulously hand-bent and affixed to the surface, creating the intricate framework that will hold the enamel. Each cell is then painstakingly filled with layers of finely ground enamel, which is fired at high temperatures to achieve its vibrant, glass-like finish. Multiple firings ensure that the colors develop depth and luminosity, with a final polishing to reveal the pendant’s stunning sheen.

The champlevé portions require a different but equally meticulous process. The artist engraves or etches the design into the gold base, creating recesses of varying depths. These cavities are then filled with enamel and fired multiple times, with each layer contributing to a smooth, even finish. The polished gold borders provide a striking contrast to the enamel’s glossy surface, adding to the pendant’s luxurious appeal.

Sea Turtle Symbolism and Meaning

The green sea turtle is a revered creature in many cultures, symbolizing wisdom, endurance, and a deep connection to nature. In Hawaiian mythology, the honu (sea turtle) is seen as a guardian spirit, guiding voyagers safely across the ocean. In Eastern traditions, sea turtles represent longevity and stability, believed to carry the weight of the world on their backs. This pendant captures that timeless symbolism, making it not only a statement piece of jewelry but also a talisman of protection and perseverance.

The use of green enamel for the shell reinforces these themes. Green is associated with tranquility, insight, and a balanced heart, echoing the calm yet strong nature of the sea turtle. Green is also the color of conservation and protection of Mother Earth, and the sea turtle, which is on the endangered animal list, is often associated with wildlife protection. This sea turtle pendant thus becomes more than just an accessory—it is a meaningful amulet for those who cherish the ocean, wildlife, conservation, and the artistry of fine jewelry.

Pssst... Shirley's one of a kind sea turtle pendants are available in other colors! You can find her red sea turtle pendant here, her blue sea turtle pendant here, and of course, feel free to message her for additional or custom color options!

Interested in creating a special piece of jewelry? Design a one-of-a-kind keepsake with Shirley.