A little more detail…

Tree of knowledge silver coin ~ Handcrafted and recycled from silver coins

The tree and owl have been carefully planned and drawn with the purpose of recycling 1800’s gothic Florin coins.  These particular coins are the perfect thickness and diameter to take advantage of in creating an ethical, original piece of wearable folk art.  The unique Tree of Life with owl design is handcrafted using traditional hand tools and techniques.  Hairy Growler workshop is an independent artisan jewellery studio which creates ethical jewellery made from recycled silver coins and spoons.  Each design is inspired by the earth realm in which we have found ourselves.

To begin the process of transforming an old silver coin I initially find the perfect ‘donor’ coin.  This involves selecting a suitably worn and unwanted (by collectors) coin destined to be melted down for silver value.  I like to preserve features of the original coin to keep its history and unknown story alive.  This in itself is a process that takes time and consideration.  Too much coin detail over powers the design as a piece of wearable, desirable jewellery.  Similarly too little original coin detail the finished piece is at risk of looking like a regular piece of ‘ethically thoughtless’ jewellery.  Not my style.  Given that I am about to undertake work that I will give a lot of time and attention too in a life with limited time and attention! I like to use my experience and discernment.

So, we’ve got the coin in question, now I proceed with rough sketching the design of the tree and owl on to the coin surface, and yes I use a magnifier sometimes.  Once this is roughly as I see it should be I use a fine point needle to scratch the over the ink so I have a guide which is more durable, the ink generally wears away with continuous handling.   Once this prep work is complete I start work drilling 0.5 mm holes through the coin.  These holes are positioned between leaves and branches to each section can be hand cut our with my favourite jewellers saw.  Consequently this lengthy process creates a piece of jewellery which is completely ‘one-off’, unique and original.  It is a process I cherish and find mentally freeing.  Upon completion of this phase I highly polish the remaining tree of life and owl outline.  Now the coin is looking like a necklace pendant and is ready to be hand carved and engraved, also using traditional hand tools and techniques.  It is these delicate precision cuts which bring the deisgn to life.  From the owl feathers to the veins on the leaves each cut is made with purpose and intent to create a work of which I will be proud.

The Tree of Life, a powerful and enduring symbol, represents interconnectedness, growth, and the cyclical nature of existence. It embodies the harmony between the earthly and spiritual realms, with roots anchoring it to the earth and branches reaching towards the heavens. Beyond this, it also symbolizes family, ancestry, and the continuation of life through generations which makes it a perfect choice for a special birthday.  The Owl represents wisdom in your life.

The Tree of Life’s symbolism is multifaceted and found across various cultures and spiritual traditions.

Interconnectedness:The tree’s extensive root system and branches symbolize the interconnectedness of all living things and the universe itself. It highlights how everything is linked and interdependent, and our actions have far-reaching consequences.

Growth and Development:The tree’s life cycle, from seedling to maturity, mirrors the stages of human life and personal growth. It represents the journey of learning, experiences, and the development of individuality.

Family and Ancestry:The intricate network of roots and branches can symbolize the familial bonds that connect generations. It represents the continuity of life and the enduring legacy of ancestors.

Spiritual Connection:Many cultures view the Tree of Life as a bridge between the earthly and spiritual realms, often seen as a path to the afterlife or a connection to God.

Strength and Resilience:Trees, especially strong and tall ones, embody resilience and the ability to withstand challenges. The Tree of Life symbolizes strength, endurance, and the ability to overcome adversity.

Knowledge and Enlightenment:In some traditions, the Tree of Life is associated with wisdom and enlightenment, as seen in the Buddhist concept of the Bodhi Tree.

Harmony and Balance:The Tree of Life often represents the balance between opposing forces, such as life and death, or the material and spiritual. Its enduring presence in art, literature, and spiritual practices speaks to its profound and universal appeal as a symbol of life’s fundamental truths and mysteries.

The barn owl, with its silent flight, ghostly appearance, and haunting screeches, has woven itself into the fabric of folklore and artistic expression, appearing across cultures as a potent and often contradictory symbol.

Mystery and the Unknown: The barn owl’s nocturnal habits and silent flight make it a creature of the shadows, evoking a sense of mystery, the hidden, and the unseen. It can represent the hidden aspects of the psyche or the deeper truths that lie beyond conscious awareness.

Wisdom and Intuition: Despite its association with darkness, owls, particularly the barn owl, are often linked to wisdom, knowledge, and intuition, according to Wild Gratitude. Their ability to navigate the darkness and locate prey based on sound alone can symbolize the power of inner knowing, trusting intuition, and finding clarity in challenging situations.

Death and Transformation: In some traditions, the barn owl’s ghostly appearance and association with the night have connected it with death and the underworld. However, this connection isn’t always negative. In some contexts, it can also signify transformation, regeneration, and the cycle of life and rebirth.

Protection and Guardianship: The barn owl’s silent hunt and its role as a nocturnal predator can be interpreted as a symbol of protection and guardianship, especially against hidden dangers in the dark, notes www.triplemoonpsychotherapy.com.

This beautiful little tree of life one pound coin pendant has been lovingly and hand cut with enormous care from an original ‘out of circulation’ pound coin. Inspired by the trees that encapsulate and capture our lives, family and togetherness.