• Materials: Silver 925 / Sterling Silver
• Measurements: 1 3/4" X 1 3/4" / 44mm X 44mm
• Gemstones: Argillite
• Artists: Gary Olver
• Totem Symbols: Killer Whale, Moon
• Styles: Canadian First Nations, Gemstone Jewelry
• Categories: Pendants

Moon

The Moon is seen in Northwest Coast mythology as a guardian and protector of the people, one of the most powerful beings. He acts as guide, and timekeeper, giving good luck and abundance to the people. The moon is often seen in a Ravens mouth which depicts a creation myth where the Raven releases the sun, moon, and stars into the sky. An eclipse is said to be a Codfish trying to swallow the moon.

Killer Whale

Killer Whales or Orcas symbolize love of all types, representing romance, loyalty and close ties between family and friends. It offers protection to travelers far from home, helping to guide your journey back. In myth the Orca is closely linked to humans; it is said that those lost at sea are transformed into these whales and have gone to live in a underwater village. Seen as the guardian of the ocean, the Orca is a strong spirit, which symbolizes longevity, resiliency and knowing that you are not alone.

Argillite

Argilite is a fine-grained sedimentary rock, often called “black slate”, and is renowned by the Haida nation for carving. The Haida began carving argillite in response to the early curio trade of the 1820's, allowing them to trade with early European explorers and settlers. Soon the artistic accomplishments of the Haida in the use of materials such as wood, horn, and stone included this new medium. While argillite used to be known as a form of tourist art, it has grown to become one of the most sought after art forms in North American First Nations art. Even today, argillite continues to be carved exclusively by Haida artists both on Haida Gwaii and in the Vancouver and Victoria areas.

Gary Olver

Originally from Northern Manitoba and of Cree descent, Gary Olver moved to British Columbia in 1975 and, inspired by Northwest Coast art, he learned to carve argillite and studied with established Artist Tom Eneas. Gary developed a unique and personal approach to argillite carving, and is now one of the best miniature carvers on the Northwest Coast. Before his artistic career, Olver worked as a professional actor in films and television series, such as X-Files and Highlander. His acting career came to a halt during a tragic accident in which some of his speech was lost. During this time he began to carve to help his dexterity and with time he developed a keen interest in making art. Catlinite, also known as “pipe stone,” is traditionally carved by the Cree and was traded with people living on the Northwest Coast. Gary incorporates this stone into his argillite work to acknowledge his roots, as well as to expand his design possibilities. He has also had his works cast in silver and gold to make exquisite jewelry pieces.