The “Moneta” Pendant:
How It’s Made
Step I.
Styling & Motif Design
Commissioning a Moneta Pendant begins with styling the pendant and designing the motif that will be engraved on it. The pendant’s frame can be cast in sterling silver, 18k gold, or a combination of the two, while the pendant itself is hand-engraved with a customized symbol or motif.
We are always pleased to engrave pre-existing subjects on our patron’s pendants; however, our true expertise lies in designing bespoke motifs. Upon request, we consult with the patron to understand the personal meaning that he or she would like the pendant to convey. We then devise a custom motif by drawing upon allegorical symbols from the Renaissance, Medieval, and Classical Period.
The resulting motif is a uniquely personal device, firmly rooted in centuries of historical provenance with distinct Italian style.
Step II.
Production & Engraving
The setting of the Moneta Pendant features Paolo Penko’s signature penkato finish; once it is cast in the patron’s metal of choice, a sterling silver or 18k gold disk is cut to size, embellished with the cesoro hammered finish, and hand-engraved with the patron’s personal motif.
Step III.
Finish & Delivery
Once the engraving has been completed, pendants with sterling silver elements are burnished, resulting in greater contrast in engraved areas.*
At this point, the pendant is ready for delivery along with Paolo Penko’s hand-drawn sketch study of the engraving and a handwritten certificate of authenticity.
*The production phase, called brunitura is not applicable to commissions in gold.