"Dragonfly Dreams" Ancient Fossilized Tusk Ivory and Paua and 14kt Gold Fill Silver Dragonfly Pin or Pendant

Zealandia Paua Jewelry—Fossilized Walrus Ivory and Silver Dragonfly Pin

The dragonfly is a dreamy creature with his iridescent wings, lighter than air body, and age-old mystique. One dragonfly myth tells a tale of epic proportions, citing that the dragonfly was once a dragon—hence his name.

As a symbol, the dragonfly has come to represent transcendence thanks to its gorgeous transformation from water dwelling nymph to a creature of flight. In fact, the dragonfly only spends about two months of his life as a flying adult. This time is precious, and he must make the most of it.

The dragonfly's unique and instantly recognizable structure forms the design inspiration for our silver dragonfly pin. His body contours are highlighted in sterling silver, and his wings decorated in rich 14k gold fill to bring this pin and carved ivory pendant a touch of sunshine.

Our designers selected New Zealand paua shell for his head, a nod to the iridescent greens and blues that characterize many dragonflies. Paua shell is found in the inner lining of a type of abalone that lives only in Kiwi waters, and it is a focal point in all Zealandia paua jewelry.

The body is carved from fossilized walrus ivory, which is between 500 and 3,000 years old. This material carries with it a mystique all its own, spending centuries buried underground where minerals color it various earthy shades from liquid caramel to deep, smoky cocoa. Collectors know that there is a good chance the colors will vary significantly in their walrus ivory art works and jewelry. The variation is part of this ancient material's appeal and organic quality.