Synthetic Opal Flower Necklace

The Synthetic Opal Cherry Blossom

This flower necklace features a cherry blossom with five round petals, about 10 mm in size. The blossom is made of synthetic opal, a manufactured stone rather than natural opal. Fine flecks of color glitter on its surface and light up anew with every movement. In white, it brings to mind fresh cherry blossoms, and in lilac, a sprig of lilac. The chain runs through a narrow hole drilled in the upper edge, so the blossom lies flat and calm. On your neck, the little blossom looks delicate and goes with almost any neckline.

Material and Craftsmanship

For the metal, you choose 925 sterling silver or 14K gold-filled. In sterling silver, 925 out of every 1,000 parts of metal are pure silver. With 14K gold-filled, a thick layer of real gold encases a base metal. It is many times thicker than ordinary gold plating and keeps its warm shine. The blossom glides on a box chain whose tiny box links form a smooth, flowing band. Each flower necklace is made in my studio in Oberhausen, threaded by hand and checked in the light. When you order, choose 45 cm (17.7 in) or 40 cm (15.7 in), whichever suits your neckline. The shorter length works well if you'd like to layer the blossom with a second necklace.

Meaning of the Cherry Blossom

Every spring, people in Japan celebrate hanami, viewing the cherry blossoms together. Because the blossoms last only a short time, they stand there for the beauty of the moment. In Germany, too, blooming cherry trees draw crowds every spring, for example in Bonn's old town. A sakura necklace reminds you to hold on to moments like these.

Caring for Your Flower Necklace

The chain handles water well when you shower or wash your hands. Perfume, lotions, and chlorine, however, are not good for the blossom, because they can dull its shine over time. So take the necklace off before swimming, and put it on only after your lotion and fragrance have soaked in. A damp cloth is enough to gently wipe it after a long day.

Synthetic opal is less hard than quartz, so protect the blossom from knocks and scratches. It's well protected in the gift box, even when you travel. When silver darkens, a soft cloth is all you need. Don't leave the necklace on a radiator or in direct sun, because high heat isn't good for the stone. That way, your cherry blossom will bloom all year long.