Foo Dog Charm Sterling Silver Facing Left | Chinese Jewelry | Made in USA

A Chinese guardian lion -- the legendary Foo Dog -- cast in solid .925 sterling silver and Made in USA. At 6.8 grams and facing left, this is one of the heaviest and most detailed charms in the collection.

This Foo Dog required an exceptionally detailed wax original to capture the curled mane, open mouth, muscular haunches, and ornamental ball beneath one paw. Lost-wax casting at over 1,640 degrees fills every curl and crevice with molten silver, and the subsequent hand-finishing -- filing, sanding, and polishing -- takes longer than most charms due to the intricate surface.

Foo Dogs have guarded Chinese palaces, temples, and homes for over 2,000 years. They always come in pairs -- the male (with a ball) guards the structure, while the female (with a cub) guards those inside. This left-facing version is traditionally placed on the right side of an entrance. At 3/8 inch by 5/8 inch, the detail is remarkable for its scale. A sterling silver jump ring is included and attached.

Meaningful for anyone with Chinese heritage, Feng Shui practitioners, collectors of Asian art and symbolism, or architecture enthusiasts. Pair with the right-facing companion for a complete guardian set on a bracelet or as matched earrings.