The Bay Necklace

Becca Charlo’s Bay Necklace is inspired by the ever-changing coastline of the Isle of Wight, where shifting tides shape the land through time, erosion and movement. Observing the natural rhythm of the sea, she translates these fluid forms into a series of interconnected elements that echo the gentle rise and fall of waves.

The piece was developed through an intuitive making process, allowing material and technique to guide the outcome. Reticulation is used to create organic, unpredictable textures reminiscent of patterns left in the sand, while Keum-boo introduces moments of warmth, reflecting light across the surface like sunlight on water. A combination of claw, collet and tube stone setting allows gemstones to sit within the piece as points of light, chosen to mirror the tones of the surrounding landscape.

Through making this work, Becca has deepened her exploration of texture, form and narrative within jewellery. The Bay Necklace marks a move towards more resolved, collection-led work, and a growing confidence in creating pieces that hold a strong sense of place and connection.

The Inspiration

The collection began with observation.

Light moving across the water.
The texture of stone softened over time.
The way the shoreline is constantly reshaped, never fixed.

These details aren’t recreated directly, but translated – through mark-making, form and the subtle irregularities that come from working by hand.

The Making Process

Each piece is individually handcrafted in the studio, allowing the material to respond during making.

Rather than highly polished finishes, the surfaces are left with a softer, more organic quality – reflecting the natural changes that inspired them.

There’s a balance between control and unpredictability, where the process itself becomes part of the final piece. Using Recycled sterling silver (925), 9ct yellow gold, 24ct gold (Keum-boo), green quartz, aquamarine, green tourmaline.