John Hardy 18KYG Electroform Batu Naga Collection Round White Sapphire Pendant

Introduced in 2008 as the first figurative piece for John Hardy, the Naga collection brings to life the Balinese legend of the dragon, a revered mythological creature symbolizing prosperity and good luck. In these legends, the dragon is known as the lover of the pearl and must dive from his volcano-top home to sea to visit his love. Each morning when he returns, his path brings water through the rice fields. The water produces a bountiful rice harvest, supporting the Balinese farmer. The collection's pieces are rich with detail and gemstones, reflecting the origins of the inspiration.

John Hardy first became known as a designer of silver jewelry, and although he now also designs in gold and with diamonds and other gemstones, he remains a master in the use of sterling silver.

Silver is pure, elemental, expressive of the powers of the Moon. Silver is called a noble metal because of its resistance to the corrosive influence of other chemicals; yet it is among the most malleable of metals.

John came to Bali in 1975 and studied silver-smithing techniques with Balinese craftsmen, some of them descendants of artisans who made jewelry for the royal courts of Bali. Many of the craftsmen employed by John Hardy today are part of that heritage. The culture of the John Hardy design studio is inclusive and diverse, reflecting the multi-cultural nature of Indonesian society. The craftsmen are from Bali, Java, Sumatra, and other Indonesian islands; many of the Balinese are descendants of artisans to the former royal courts of Bali. The international management team members are from Europe, America, Australia, and Asia.