Ellie: Caroline's bright-as-a-button dog
This is Ellie, the little rescue dog who completely stole Caroline’s heart. Ellie belonged to Mette’s daughter in the USA, and from the photographs and stories Mette shared with me, it was obvious these two had an incredibly special bond.
Caroline spent years working with Ellie in obedience and agility, and Ellie later became a certified therapy dog with Therapy Dog International. Wherever Caroline was, Ellie’s attention was completely fixed on her. Mette told me Ellie would often tilt her head when she focused on Caroline and I knew straight away that was the pose I wanted to capture in the necklace.
Ellie’s colouring was beautifully subtle too. Her brindle coat had soft golden tones running through it when she was younger, before darkening with age, so I used warm gold details against silver to reflect those gentle changes in her colouring. Even the tiny details mattered, including Ellie’s little stub tail, something that made her instantly recognisable to the people who loved her most.
One of my favourite things about this piece was knowing how creative this family is. Mette shared old photographs, a school poster Caroline had made years ago, and even a doodle Caroline drew herself of their three pugs. You could feel just how deeply woven Ellie was into their family history.
This necklace became far more than jewellery. It was about preserving the tiny expressions and characteristics that made Ellie, Ellie. The tilted head. The alert little ears. The quiet focus she always had whenever Caroline was near.
Pieces like this are always emotional to create because they hold so much love inside them. And while some people see “just a dog”, families like this know they leave fingerprints on your entire life.
If you’ve ever thought about having a custom piece made, I’d love to hear your ideas. You can read more about my process here: Custom Pet Jewellery.
Who knows? Your precious friend might just be the next one I’m smiling about at my workbench.
Easy Design Process
Take the first step toward an one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery you and your pets deserve. With my simple, personal design process, I'll create a treasure that lasts a lifetime, and beyond.
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