Its no surprise people
slow their pace as they pass a jewelry store. It’s in our nature.
From local shopping malls and farmers markets, to the streets of India
and Ireland, I’ve seen people stop mid-stride to admire the magical combination
of metal and stone. It’s a love that is both global and individual, and
perfectly sized to fit. There are few things that can play a role so
vast and make itself at home on your finger at the same time.
As a silversmith, I am enchanted by the creativity and diversity expressed through the art of jewelry making. It engages all of my senses.
Golden Agate Ring by Asia Raine
I smell the earth in the raw
stone ready to be shaped, and gently handle a faceted gem. I’ve felt the
sting of the hammer, the cut of a saw, and the heat of soldered metal.
I’ve tasted a multitude of emotions as metal, stone, flame, water, pearl, and
jewel have taught me their language. The style and form of a finished
product reveals the whisper of connection between self and elements that
dazzles the eye. And I’ve inhaled the joy of sharing my craft with
others.
Truly, there is much to love about the creations we call jewelry, and I’d like to share five of my favorite joys.
1. Connection
I was one of those kids
that ran around with rocks and feathers in her pockets. It was portable
nature, it fit in my hand, and it felt good. As I learned the skills of a
silver smith, I felt like I’d been given the passkey to another level of the
natural world. It’s like Mother Nature invited me for a cup of tea to dispel a
few mysteries and I listened. Naturally, I wanted to share my discovery
with others. One connection led to another, and not only have I developed
a relationship with rocks and metal, I’ve expanded my community. The
magnetism inherent in jewelry affects people, drawing them in and expanding
their reach. It’s like breathing. I've made new friends, have new
contacts and am enriched by new stories. The ring on your finger can
ignite a conversation that someone relates to, and suddenly you’re
fast friends. Jewelry engages connection in the micro and macro of humans
and nature. It marks a place where new relationships can begin.
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| Etched Brass Riveted to Copper Cuff by Asia Raine |
Without much effort,
jewelry artfully segues connection and symbolism. People often ask about the
meanings connected to the stones and gems. Or they’ll ask about the value of
the metal. For many reasons, both esoteric and practical, symbolism is
inherently linked to jewelry. We can understand and relate to ancient
cultures through observing their use of jewelry and the symbolism associated
with it. Jewelry can be an indicator of marriage and commitment, of religious
or group affiliations, or a marker of rank and status. It offers a
way to reveal a mystical side, or display a refinement that speaks without
making a sound. The jewelry you wear is a symbol that reflects your
values, tastes, ideals and preferences. It’s a demonstration of you.
3. Expression
The world is viewed
through millions of eyes translating beauty through each perception.
This is why jewelry is one of my favorite mediums of expression. Give an
artist the material and tools, and unique and wonderful forms arise. From
minimalistic to intricate or even extravagant, the techniques, materials and
tools used to craft elements into a piece of jewelry, is alchemic. But it
doesn’t stop there. How the jewelry is worn is truly the showcasing of
its expression. There is a fluid transition from symbolism to
personal expression. Of course how jewelry is worn, where it is worn and
why, are all wrapped up in the elegant, glittering, shiny statements expressed
on millions of bodies world wide.
4. Emotion
I consider this the
elusive “Why” of jewelry love. The emotions that originate from the
creating, the purchase, the giving, and the wearing are powerful and
motivating. There is often a story behind each piece and an emotion
elicited each time it is talked about. The richness of jewelry extends
far beyond the price tag. Jewelry carries stories that last lifetimes.
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| Labradorite & Rhyolite Pendants by Asia |
5. Bling
Factor
The sparkle, the magic,
the light, the way a diamond is cut and reflects its own beauty, (inclusions
and all), this is the draw of the bling. Its power is seductive. I believe it is because inwardly, we recognize our own reflection in the jewelry that draws us. Humans shine.
We’re multi faceted and valuable. We’re unique and we have deep meaning.
Each jewel, each watch, ring, pearl or band is made from the same stuff we
are. And jewelry is way through which we can we can hold our own
brilliance in our hand.
So next time your step is
altered by a shiny gem or stately timepiece, honor that moment and pause.
Enjoy the moment. Hold it close and see the bling. Wish and save
and bring that symbol into your life.
For what you’re seeing is
yourself.
Join the conversation. What Sparkles for You?
What is your favorite thing about jewelry?
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