Whiskey barrel oak Hei Toki adze Cassiopeia constellation pendant.

Measurements,
Length - 10cm
Width - 2.6cm
Depth - 1cm
Weight - 18 grams

This handcrafted Toki-style pendant, made from a whiskey oak barrel strut, is a true testament to both the beauty of natural materials and the allure of the night sky. The pendant features the iconic Cassiopeia constellation, delicately chiselled by hand into the wood and accentuated by copper pins representing the stars, without any stone inlay. The oak itself, sourced from a whiskey barrel, retains a subtle hint of its past life, offering a sensory link to the history of the wood while celebrating the simplicity of fine craftsmanship and cosmic symbolism.

Design Highlights:
Cassiopeia Constellation in Copper: The five stars of the Cassiopeia constellation are brought to life using copper pins, each carefully placed into the wood to mimic the W-shaped pattern that lights up the northern sky. The chiselled lines that connect the stars create a sense of depth and movement, evoking the feeling of gazing at the stars on a clear night.

Chiselled Line Work: Rather than using an inlay, the line work between the stars has been painstakingly chiselled directly into the oak, adding a raw and natural texture to the design. This minimalist approach allows the beauty of the wood and the constellation to shine without distraction, offering a timeless, earthy charm.
Whiskey Oak Barrel Wood: Crafted from an oak whiskey barrel strut, this pendant holds a connection to its past, with a subtle whiskey aroma still detectable during the crafting process. The oak wood itself is rich in texture and grain, offering a visual feast for those who appreciate natural materials.

The Story of Cassiopeia:
In ancient Greek mythology, Cassiopeia was a queen whose pride led to her downfall. After boasting about her beauty and offending the sea nymphs, the god Poseidon punished her by placing her in the sky as a constellation, where she sits on her throne. Her eternal position in the stars, sometimes appearing upside down as the seasons change, serves as a reminder of the consequences of vanity. Yet, over time, Cassiopeia’s constellation has come to symbolize endurance and beauty that transcends time, acting as a guiding light in the northern sky for travelers and stargazers alike.

Spiritual & Symbolic Significance:

Cassiopeia’s Legacy: The constellation Cassiopeia, with its W-shaped formation, is seen as a symbol of guidance, resilience, and the eternal presence of the stars above. It’s a perfect motif for those on a journey of spiritual exploration or for those who find inspiration in the celestial patterns of the night sky.

Copper Pins: Copper, known for its conductive and healing properties, is often associated with vitality, protection, and amplifying energies. The use of copper to represent the stars in this pendant not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the spiritual significance of connecting with cosmic energies.

Toki Shape: The Toki (adze) is a traditional shape symbolizing strength, courage, and leadership. Combined with the cosmic power of Cassiopeia, this pendant becomes a talisman of empowerment, guiding its wearer through life’s challenges with resilience and clarity.

Key Features:
Material: Authentic whiskey oak barrel wood, with hand-carved Cassiopeia constellation accented by copper pins for the stars.

Design: Minimalist chiselled line work representing the celestial connections of the constellation, without the use of inlay stones.
Finish: Treated with linseed oil and polished with Brays Beeswax polish for a smooth, natural finish that enhances the wood’s grain.

Unique Touch: Subtle hints of whiskey from the oak’s previous life in a barrel add depth and character to this piece, creating a sensory connection to its history.
This pendant is perfect for space enthusiasts, stargazers, or anyone who seeks a connection to the mystical world of the stars. With its simple yet striking design, it serves as a reminder of the universal beauty of the night sky and the eternal wisdom found in the stars.

Whether worn as a piece of jewelry or kept as a personal talisman, this Toki pendant is a powerful reminder of the constellations above and the journey within.