There is a lovely realism to Sugar Maple 16" Adj. Pendant, which translates sugar maple leaves into jewelry without smoothing away the details that make the plant itself interesting. Michaud's process begins with actual botanical elements rather than a hand-carved wax model. A mold is formed around the plant material, which burns away during casting and leaves its fine texture behind. Handcrafted in New York, the finished design feels distinctive while keeping the easy, organic quality of the original plant. Michaud's botanical collections have also been commissioned by major museums, including the Victoria & Albert Museum and the National Gallery of Art. Bronze.