Concept
The adornment is a silver pendant featuring a Khanty frog symbol rendered in a traditional ornamental style. In the culture of the Khanty and Mansi peoples, the frog is associated with the natural world, fertility, renewal, and the continuation of life. This motif can be interpreted as a symbol of the feminine principle, well-being, and protection, though its specific meaning depends on the local tradition and the interpretation of the ornament. The piece reinterprets traditional symbolism within a contemporary piece of jewelry, maintaining a connection to the cultural heritage of the indigenous peoples of the North. Its concise form and silver surface make the pendant a versatile accessory suitable for daily wear.
Structure Description
The ornament consists of two elements: a pendant and a cord base. The pendant is crafted in the form of a symmetrical geometric pattern that creates a stylized image of a frog. The figure contour is complemented by angular protrusions and internal cutouts, allowing the symbol to be perceived as an openwork composition. A bail is provided at the top of the pendant to connect it to the black cord. The contrast between the dark base and the silver metal highlights the shape of the ornament.
Materials
925 sterling silver—the primary material of the pendant—possesses a characteristic luster, plasticity, and resistance to daily wear when properly cared for. A black leather or synthetic cord serves as the foundation of the piece, creating a visual contrast with the metal. A silver bail acts as the connecting element between the pendant and the cord. To treat the metal, polishing and matte finishing of specific areas can be applied, allowing the relief and geometry of the ornament to be accentuated.
Ornamental Symbolism
The «frog» ornament in the traditional culture of the Khanty is associated with the feminine principle, fertility, family well-being, and the protection of the hearth. In some traditions, the image is also associated with the health and longevity of newborns. In this piece of jewelry, the ancient symbol is transformed into a modern object that connects the aesthetic expressiveness of geometric ornamentation with cultural memory. The silver accentuates the graphic quality of the form, and the minimalist cord allows the traditional motif to become part of everyday style.
Cost: The estimated price for a 925 sterling silver pendant is 4,000–10,000 rubles. A black cord will cost approximately 300–1,000 rubles. Developing a custom model and preparing for production may cost an additional 1,000–4,000 rubles. Therefore, the total estimated cost to produce one piece of jewelry will range from 5,300 to 15,000 rubles, depending on the amount of silver, the complexity of the ornamentation, and the production technology.
Potential Producer: Samorodok Jewelry Production (Saint Petersburg). The company manufactures jewelry from 925 sterling silver and handles the complete production cycle—from concept design and wax modeling to casting and polishing.
