Vintage-Style Gourd and Seed Pod Necklace

by Sala Faruq.

I created the base for this necklace using two gourd stems. Thinking that the necessary inspiration to complete the piece was forthcoming, I placed the “base” on a display stand and put it on my desk.

"A Rose by Any Other Name" by Sala Faruq.

Well, inspiration was not forthcoming. It was almost a year later before I got the creative groove to finish this particular necklace.

Inspiration came while I was trolling the aisles of one of my favorite thrift stores a few weeks ago. I noticed a wire pumpkin filled with gourds and unusual shaped seed pods. I purchased the pumpkin and could not wait to get home to explore the contents of the wired form.

The seed pods resembled dried flowers in various stages of bloom. I selected a few pods and started playing around with placement on the stem base until I was satisfied with the layout. I attached the pods with glue. I cut the bottoms off three jewel gourds and placed one in the center of each “flower”. I covered the gourd centers with metal leaf. Then, I painted the necklace with metallic acrylic paint and protected the entire necklace with a polycrlic sealant.

Now, the necklace, turned out oh so very lovely (even if I do say so myself), and it fit the theme of mother or mother’s day which was quite by accident. It represents the essence of women, our mothers. The necklace is flowery and elegant with a touch of funk.

Title: A Rose by Any Other Name
Media: Gourd, gourd stems, dried seed pods, wood, metal leaf, acrlyic paints, polcrylic sealant, brass
Dimensions: Pendant: 5-1/2 x 9 x 3-1/2 inches. Chain: 16 inches.

Sala Faruq
SalaFaruq.com
Sala Faruq at Etsy