Collier Raden / Oshiai Kiku / s rose

This is a mother-of-pearl (Raden) inlay necklace with chrysanthemums design filled without gaps on a drop-shaped base.
The name "oshiai kiku" comes from the fact that the chrysanthemums (Kiku in Japanese) are packed together as if pushing each other (Oshiai in Japanese).
The center of the flower is made gorgeous by using a 24k gold plate metal punched out part.

Characteristic
The thinly stripped nacreous layer is examined and only the parts with outstanding luster and color are carefully selected for use.
The shells are then polished to the thinnest possible thickness, and finally processed by hand to less than 0.1 mm.
The thinner the shell is, the more clearly the luster becomes and the more flexible it can be applied to the surface of the fabric, so it can be decorated without destroying the form of the fabric.
In the process of cutting out and applying the shells, the angle at which each one shines is carefully determined.

By finding the most beautiful angle and aligning them all in the same direction, we are able to bring out the brilliance and beauty of shells that you have never seen and never experienced before.

Width：1.4cm
Height：2.5cm
Weight：3g
Chain：45cm

Shell
Wood
Gold

SAGA RADEN NOMURA

"Craftsmanship that bring peace of mind."

In an age of rapidly changing lifestyles, it is not easy to create a time when one's "heart" is at peace. It is precisely at times like these that we need "time and space" for peace of mind.
We create each piece of furniture by utilizing carefully selected materials and technical skills. We do not compromise, but we do not forget to be playful. We put into our works our wish to provide our customers with a time of relaxation with our creations.

ARTISAN STORY

Saga Japanese mother-of-pearl inlay Nomura / Takuya Nomura
Born in Kyoto in 1987. After working at an apparel manufacturer for 5 years, returned to the family business in 2016. Utilizing his experience studying abroad in Los Angeles, he develops products that meet overseas needs; since 2017, he has been participating with his father in a product development project with a designer in Paris. He is actively involved in proposing new Japanese mother-of-pearl inlay products in overseas markets.

RADEN / JAPANESE MOTHER-OF-PEARL INLAY

About 1,300 years ago / 700s / Nara Period (710–794)

Raden decorates lacquered or wooden surfaces with thin pieces of nacre from shells such as turban shell, white-lip pearl oyster and abalone. The technique reached Japan from continental Asia by the Nara period, and extraordinary examples survive in the Shosoin. It later combined with maki-e on boxes, furniture and musical instruments.

In Japan, raden is synonymous with iridescent luxury against dark lacquer and has appeared on Buddhist objects, writing boxes, sword fittings and obi ornaments. Contemporary makers apply it to jewelry, watches and art.

The color is not pigment. Microscopic layers in nacre interfere with light, shifting through blue, green and purple as the viewing angle changes. The artisan is not “painting” color but cutting and arranging a natural optical structure.

Individual Differences

As each piece is individually handcrafted, slight variations in color, pattern, shape, and texture may occur. These subtle differences are a natural characteristic of handcrafted works, making each piece truly unique. We hope you will enjoy these individual variations as part of the beauty and character of Japanese craftsmanship.

Production Time

If an item is not currently in stock, it may be made to order by the artisan. As each piece is carefully handcrafted, production may take several months depending on the item and the artisan's schedule. We appreciate your patience and understanding.