A Place for Jewellery During Times of Uncertainty
Over the past couple of months, we’ve all stood witness as everything that was familiar shifted, in big ways and small. Most of us have felt drastic changes within our communities and within ourselves. The emotions are plenty and vast. Amidst it all, it’s been almost impossible to avoid calling into question what truly matters to us. Whether we’ve dwelled on this big question directly or indirectly, I’d say it’s been a universal topic of contemplation as of late. Much of what we took for granted in our daily lives has become the subject of our longings. Although some things are temporarily different, many aspects of our lives will be changed forever.
Throughout this pandemic, I, like most others, have been on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Although I have been able to safely continue to work in my studio, which I am very grateful for, it just hasn’t been possible to continue on in exactly the same manner as before. I found myself in a slump festering over the thought that in a pandemic, jewellery doesn’t matter; it is neither an essential service or product, and it will not save lives. I sat at my workbench with this thought at the forefront for days, until slowly I was able to reach a certain level of acceptance that while parts of it were indeed true, it did not mean that there was no longer a place for jewellery. I believe that in times of uncertainty, there will always be a place for art and beauty, because, although these arguably “non-essential” things do not save lives, they do present us with that which helps us find hope, and strength, and light.
As a lover and designer of jewellery, I’ve been reflecting a lot on what jewellery has meant to me during this time, and in what ways others might find a place for jewellery too. My interest in jewellery has never fully centred around its aesthetic appeal as a fashion accessory, but rather the potential it has to hold sentiment for people and places. Now, more than ever, I have found myself looking at my jewellery as quiet and subtle reminders of persistence.
I thought I would share a few thoughts on how I have found a meaningful place for jewellery during this time of uncertainty.
Relive adventure
Do you have a special piece of jewellery you picked up somewhere along your travels, or a piece you keep as a physical reminder of a thrilling adventure from your past? In my early twenties, I traveled solo to Italy to take a jewellery workshop in Florence; it was my first time travelling alone, and I felt both terrified and exhilarated by the idea of my independence in a foreign country. It was an incredible trip during which I spent much of my time wandering around lush gardens, staring up at ancient architecture, and sipping espresso at cozy corner cafes bursting with sounds. Inside a lovely shop near the tiny apartment I got to call my own for two weeks, I found a brass bracelet that immediately drew my attention; it was handmade by a Florence-based jewellery designer Mikinora. Both its form and color reminded me of the the magical golden light that appears so different in Florence than anywhere I’d ever been. Since that trip, this bracelet has always brought me right back to this solo adventure, and the novel curiosity of exploring a new place.
Venturing beyond the bounds of our own backyards seems like an impossibility at the moment, but with a little imagination we can still tap into the heightened sensations and awareness that is often part of the excitement of travel. Put on that necklace or ring you picked up as a souvenir, and close your eyes. Retrace the steps in your memory to take yourself back to a place you once travelled. Think of the smells, colors, sounds, and the feeling of the air that surrounded you. Relish for a few moments in those memories, and know that more adventures await us when the time is right.
Hold your loved ones close in spirit
Do you have any jewellery that was lovingly passed down or gifted to you from a loved one? Whether it’s fine or precious, or costume type jewellery does not matter; jewellery that was thoughtfully given symbolizes a connection between people, regardless of physical proximity. If you have a piece passed down from another generation, think about the person who wore it before you–imagine all the places the piece has been, and all that it has witnessed. It likely holds a lot if history, much of which you may never know the all details of, but to have a tiny connection to another’s life through a shared object of adornment is incredibly special.
This past mother’s day, the regulations surrounding physical distancing prevented me from being able to visit my mum, or either of my grandmothers. Being unable to spend time in-person with these these important women in my life was unfortunate, but I found ways to keep them in my thoughts, and to honour them from a distance. I am really fortunate to have a few pieces of jewellery that have been passed along to me from my mum and grandmothers, so this Mothers’ Day, I put on these special pieces, and spent time reflecting on their lives, and the significance of our relationships to each other. This helped me feel a little closer to the people I love. Wearing pieces that have been gifted to me by dear friends has also been a nice way to feel a greater sense of connection during this time of isolation.
A few pieces of jewellery that were passed along to me by my mum and my two grandmothers.
Feel good, just for you
Throughout this pandemic, not having to leave the house has served as a convenient excuse to live in sweatpants or “lounge-wear”, as some prefer to call it. I am fully guilty of this myself, and while I essentially don’t see anything wrong with being comfortable at home, sometimes dressing up a bit can actually make you feel better. Why not start with putting on a piece of jewellery? You can still wear your comfy clothes and put on a bold pair of earrings, or a simple necklace. It is always okay to wear jewellery just for the fun of it or simply because it makes you feel good!
A few weeks ago, I purchased a new pair of earrings from a fellow jeweller Anne-Sophie Vallee. They are big and colourful, and make delightful sounds like a little wind chimes that dangle from my ears. Whenever I wear these earrings, it’s almost impossible not to feel happy, so I’ve reached for them often, even on days where I have no plans of leaving the couch.
I hope these thoughts may bring you a little inspiration to dig out your jewels, and consider what sentiments your pieces may hold beyond their inherent purpose of adornment. During this time of uncertainty, I hope you may find a glimmer of connection when you feel alone, hope when you feel defeated, and light when everything looks dark.
Thanks for reading :)