Black Opal Hand-Knotted Strand Necklace in Sterling Silver

There’s an undeniably sensuous allure to a hand-knotted strand of gemstones. Each bead moves with a liquid grace, the silk thread giving the necklace a supple drape against the skin. In the hand, they’re a joy to roll between your fingers, smooth and rhythmic with just the right weight. It’s a tactile pleasure, flexible and deeply satisfying. I adore layering these strands, playing with different stones, colors, and lengths, but they’re just as beautiful worn alone. Each one is knotted on silk thread chosen to complement the stones.

These black opals are dark, inky and mysterious, with deep blue running through the base color and hints of green that appear as they catch the light. Every once in a while there’s even a tiny flash of red. They aren’t wildly flashy opals, and I think that’s what I like about them. The color feels deep, like you’re looking into the stones rather than simply at them, and the faceting gives them just enough shimmer to bring all those dark colors to life.

Opal has been treasured for centuries and has gathered plenty of lore along the way. It’s traditionally associated with creativity, passion, intuition and imagination, with its shifting color thought to heighten emotion and inspire self-expression.

✧ Stone: Black opal
✧ Bead Size: Graduated approximately 7–9mm faceted rondelles
✧ Length: Adjustable from 20.5–22.5 inches with a 2-inch sterling silver extension chain
✧ Thread: Hand-knotted on black silk
✧ Closure: Sterling silver lobster claw clasp with 2-inch extension chain
✧ Metal: Sterling silver

One-of-a-kind and made with care in my studio.