The day of the dead.
Day of the dead jewellery – handmade and recycled silver sixpence coin
Day of the Dead (Spanish: Día de Muertos) is an ancient Aztec celebration some believe dates back over 3000 years. Today it is a fabulous Mexican holiday celebrated throughout Mexico and around the world in other cultures. The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died.
A calaca is a figure of a skull or skeleton (usually human) commonly used for decoration during the Mexican Day of the Dead festival, although they are made all year round. Tracing their origins from Aztec imagery, calacas are frequently shown with marigold flowers and foliage. As with other aspects of the Day of the Dead festival, calacas are generally depicted as joyous rather than mournful figures. They are often shown wearing festive clothing, dancing, and playing musical instruments to indicate a happy afterlife. This draws on the Mexican belief that no dead soul likes to be thought of sadly, and that death should be a joyous occasion. This goes back to Aztec beliefs, one of the few traditions to remain after the Spanish conquest.
Calacas used in the festival include carved skull masks worn by revelers, small figures made out of carved wood or fired clay, and sweet treats in the form of skulls or skeletons. Calacas are sometimes made of wood, stone, or even candy. In this case a recycle silver sixpence coin!
It is difficult to cut and engrave because it is a tough metal and the space is small at only 16 mm diameter working area. Each one of these pendants is handmade from a silver sixpence coin. Using a marker pen a quick inspired sketch is dropped on to the surface of the silver sixpence. I then meticulously carve away the design with a traditional hand engraving tool and cut details using a traditional jewellers saw. Once the details are cut the pendant is given an extremely bright polishing which really brings the coin to life.
As I handcut each coin individually to order every one is completely unique and unusual. They look and feel special.
Handcrafted and recycled in Cambridge, UK.
Size : Approx 19 mm diameter
Cher –
In Love With Hairy Growler
This is the first piece i ever seen of hairy growlers work, it was on facebook and could not believe how amazing it was! finally someone who makes my style of jewellery! ive been hoping and hoping for this necklace for many months but pennies are tight! the craft man ship that goes into the work is unbelievable and the detail is amazing. Im hoping and hoping i find this under the christmas tree this year! amazing work x
Saszy –
Gorgeous
This is a beautiful intricate design enhanced by the clasp and star which look great when worn next to the skull! Extra special way of reusing a coin
Ellie –
In Love!
I was lucky enough to receive this necklace as my 21st birthday gift (after much hinting) and i’m complete in love with it. I love the size. I love the design. I love the detail. And I love the clasp! It’s definitely my favourite necklace I own.
Cannot wait to add to my Hairy Growler collection!
Thank you for your amazing work!
Tracii –
you see in my head!
If I had the gift of words to say my ideal necklace that id never take off ……you have designed and made it. I completely love it and cant believe you never made it from my design in my head! Amazing work! X
Ellie –
In Love!
I was lucky enough to receive this necklace as my 21st birthday gift ( after much hinting ) and i’m completely in love with it. I love the detail. I love the design. I love the size. And I love the clasp!
Hoping to add to my Hairy Growler collection soon!
Thank you for your amazing work!
HAzman –
Dreams may come true….
This is a beautiful piece and I wish that I had this.
I will be saving for this.
#Truelybeautiful
PixieLove –
SUGARBEAUTY
I love everything about Sugar Skulls and you have represented them perfectly! I want!!
vasilisa –
sugar skull!!
AMAZING!! keep the creative juices flowing!!
Janae –
One of my Favorites!
I absolutely love Sugar Skulls! One of my favorite pieces of yours. I hope to own it some day! LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!! <3
Lynne –
Beautiful
Ordered this necklace for my son for his wife’s 30th birthday, she absolutely loved it, beautifully done. Second item have ordered and have had nothing but First class service and jewelry. Thank you for 5***** service. Highly recommend.
Vee –
Wonderful….
My family bought me a “Mr and Mrs day of the dead” made into earrings for a special birthday….. and I love them so much , something I’ll treasure forever. ❤❤❤
Suzanne –
A perfect gift!
I ordered the Day of the Dead necklace for my husbands birthday, I had left it a little late however Hairy Growler were brilliant and made sure I got the piece in time! It did not disappoint, it was beautifully made and my husband really liked it. Chain length 22″ was also perfect as I find some mens jewellery can be a bit tight. This fitted him perfectly.
Absolutely loved it and would highly recommend for fantastic service and beautifully crafted and personal gifts. The choice of designs is also great. Thanks Hairy Growler!
Virginia Wallerstedt (verified owner) –
I absolutely love this piece. Les’s work is delicate here yet sturdy, and Mrs. Dia de Muertos is exactly what I was hoping for. Not only do I love the piece, but Les got it to me in time for my 11th wedding anniversary…Nov. 1, the start of season when we remember and celebrate our beloved departed. I so appreciate his gorgeous work and wonderful customer service. I am repeat customer and plan to keep coming back!