Bella & Iris: Papillon Sisters Together Forever
Every so often, a message arrives that really stays with me, and Grace’s was one of those.
Back in May, she contacted me to create a custom necklace for her mum, featuring her two beloved Papillon dogs, Bella and Iris. These delicate little dogs, with their butterfly-like ears and expressive faces, were such a joy to recreate in silver.
Grace told me that Bella, the one with lighter coloured fur, had sadly passed away in November 2023, but that her darker sister Iris was still with them. The necklace was a way for her mum to keep both girls close to her heart, a beautiful tribute to their bond.
I crafted the pendant in layers of sterling silver, engraving each detail to capture their individual markings and soft Papillon expressions. When it was finished, the two sisters sat side by side, reunited in silver, full of character and life.
A few months later, Grace got back in touch. Her message was both heartbreaking and deeply touching:
“Bella is the one with lighter coloured fur, who passed in November 2023, and her sister Iris is the one with darker coloured fur, who passed on Friday.”
Both dogs were now gone and Grace wanted to order a matching necklace for herself, just like the one I had made for her mum.“
I just wanted to start by saying thank you. I ordered a custom necklace a few months ago for my mum and she absolutely loved it!”
It’s always special when someone comes back to commission another piece, but when it’s because the first meant so much, that’s something else entirely.
I’ll soon be making Grace’s necklace: the same two Papillons, side by side once again, this time for her. Though Bella and Iris are gone, their spirits, their soft ears, gentle faces, and the love they gave, will live on in silver, shining against the hearts of the people who loved them most.
These are the pieces that remind me why I do what I do, jewellery that doesn’t just sparkle, but remembers.
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.
Send a few photographs and begin a conversation about a custom piece.
You don’t need to know exactly what you want. Photos are enough to start.
- WhatsApp your photos using the green button (below right)
- email me directly at info@freshfleeces.com
- or complete the enquiry form and I’ll be in touch
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