Florence: The Wire Haired Dachshund Gone Too Soon
When Val got in touch with me, she wanted to create something truly special for her granddaughter Seren. Seren’s beloved wire dachshund, Florence, had sadly been killed in a tragic accident, and the whole family was heartbroken. Florence had been such a huge part of Seren’s life, and Val wanted her to have something she could wear every day to keep Florence close to her heart.
Florence was clearly a very special little dog, loved deeply not only by Seren but by everyone who knew her. Creating memorial jewellery is always emotional, but pieces like this feel especially meaningful because they hold so many memories and so much love within them.
Using Val’s photographs as inspiration, I made Florence as a necklace in silver, oxidised silver and rose gold. One of the things I loved most about Florence was the way she sat in the photographs, so I recreated her in exactly the same position.
I carefully captured her long ears, bright eyes, little nose and tail, adding layers of oxidised silver and warm rose gold tones so the piece would catch the light beautifully from every angle.
“Dear Avril, Florence arrived in good time and she is adorable - made us cry. You’ve captured her perfectly - the ears, the eyes, the nose, the tail and the way she sits and love the different colours when the light hits at a different angle. As Florence was such a special dog that we lost so young, this piece of jewellery is special too. I don’t think Seren will ever take it off. Thank you sooo much for making this possible. Thank you so much Avril - you are a remarkable lady.”
When the necklace arrived, Val sent me the loveliest message:
“Dear Avril,
Florence arrived in good time and she is adorable - made us cry.
You’ve captured her perfectly - the ears, the eyes, the nose, the tail and the way she sits and love the different colours when the light hits at a different angle.
As Florence was such a special dog that we lost so young, this piece of jewellery is special too. I don’t think Seren will ever take it off and she’s explained she wants it to be absolutely right for Florence. So many people knew Florence and I know will comment on the pendant - they do for the one you made me almost three years ago.
Thank you sooo much for making this possible.
Thank you so much Avril - you are a remarkable lady.”
Messages like this always remind me why I love creating these pieces so much. Knowing Seren now has something she can wear every day, something that captures Florence’s personality and spirit, is incredibly special.
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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