Cuttlebone Cross Pin / Tie Tack

For many people, the Christian cross has been the symbol of the ultimate love and sacrifice. The fish (ichthus) has a long history in the Christian faith – representing the dedication of leaving a past way of life behind, to follow Jesus to a new way of life.

After rough storms, the internal shells of the cuttlefish mollusk – called a cuttlebone – would wash up onto sandy beaches. Believed to date as far back as medieval times, goldsmiths would gather up the cuttlebones for a casting method called cuttlebone casting. Carving and casting metal directly into the inside of the cuttlebone allows the piece to take on the unique and organic beauty of the bone’s internal structure – giving an almost wood grain-like texture.

Since being replaced by modern wax methods in the mainstream jewelry industry, cuttlebone casting has been kept alive by wonderfully skilled artisans. As a jeweler, I have had the privilege of learning this technique. The Cuttlebone Cross was the very first piece I carved, cast, and finished from beginning to end. Thanks to modern methods, I’m able to reproduce my original piece.

To celebrate the symbol of the ultimate love and sacrifice and being lifted up from the sand with renewed hope and life after the storm, I’m offering the Cuttlebone Cross!