Once I Was a Queen Necklace – Vitreous Enamel, Gold, Blue Topaz in Silver

"Memento mori, memento vivere. - Remember that you will die, remember to live."

A crowned figure emerges from a deep black enamel ground, adorned in silver, gold and blue — a reminder that beauty, status and splendour are never ours to keep. While the pale blue topaz catches the light, the gold crown remains suspended beneath the glass.

Handcrafted in sterling and fine silver using traditional cloisonné enamelling techniques Once I Was a Queen carries the timeless lesson of memento mori: everything we possess, everything we become, eventually passes.

Details
• Material: Vitreous Enamel on copper, Sterling Silver, Fine Silver, 24k Gold Foil
• Stone: Sky Blue Topaz, 4 × 4 mm
• Pendant size: 34 × 17 mm
• Chain length: Choose among 40-50-60 cm
• Pendant weight excluding chain: 8.3 g

Entirely handmade & one of a kind.

About Vitreous Enamel
Vitreous enamel is the ancient art of fusing powdered glass onto metal at high heat, creating long-lasting luminous surfaces. Each firing transforms fragile grains of glass into a smooth, jewel-like layer, rich with depth and color. In cloisonné enamelling, fine metal wires are carefully shaped and arranged to create individual compartments, which are then filled with coloured enamel and fired in a kiln. This intricate technique allows detailed compositions to be built directly onto the metal surface. Practiced for thousands of years across Byzantine icons, Ottoman jewelry, and Art Nouveau masterpieces, enamel brings a painter’s palette to metalwork — every shade alive with light.

About Sky Blue Topaz 

Known for its delicate, pale blue colour and luminous clarity, sky blue topaz is traditionally associated with calmness, clarity and communication. Its gentle colour evokes open skies and still waters, while its symbolism reflects ideas of harmony, understanding and self-expression.

Want to learn more?
Explore our Guide to Gemstones to discover their stories and symbolism.