“If everything around you seems dark, look again, you may be the light..“
– Rumi
Every story needs a hero and he or she only becomes one after overcoming a seemingly insurmountable nemesis. And every hero-to-be needs a force that motivates and provides affirmation in the darkest of times.
We may not have to wage a war against some fierce monster unleashed to destroy mankind, however we sure do battle many obstacles within and on the outside in our endeavor to achieve our goals and lead the best life that we can.
It’s in crucial times like the current pandemic that we realize how vulnerable we are and seek affirmation for a secure future. People try different ways to reassure themselves and seek solace in their loved ones, religion, nature and the overall belief that the world will return to normalcy.
Jewelry has long provided remembrance for life’s important occasions, moments and memories in the form of motifs and symbols that we hold close to our hearts. Heirlooms which are passed down from generations are held in high regards and lend a positive aura to the wearer.
In earlier times, fine jewelry of the above kind was either subdued or ostentatious, but nothing in between that was suitable for daily wear. However, since the last few years, things have changed and we are going to explore some exciting offerings from upcoming independent designers and brands which push beyond convention and can begin your association with a beautiful symbol of faith.
Ganesha:
Ganesha is revered as the God of new beginnings, wisdom, success and a remover of obstacles.
He is easily identified by the elephant’s head and is widely worshiped across the Hindu, Jain and Buddhist sects. He is a much loved and adored God in the Indian culture is always honored before commencing rituals or important personal tasks .
Inspired from Buddhist and Eastern traditions, Nancy Badia founded Buddha Mama and crafts fine jewelry in line with the zen ideology.
The brands stands out from its peers for their hand made creations and rich usage of colorful gemstones and enameling.
The visually striking Ganesha pendants are crafted in 20K gold and set with diamonds, sapphires and rubies.
Cross:
The Cross has been a symbol of Christian faith in various forms and shapes for centuries and is considered by many as a protective element against evil forces.
This attractive cross pendant from Spanish fashion brand Tous stands out from the conventional offerings available in the market and offers a chic option to accessorise with a casual outfit..
The rainbow themed pendant is crafted in 18K Rose Gold plated Sterling Silver and set with vibrant gemstones like pearls, turquoise, spinels, amethyst, peridot, topaz, created ruby, iolite and sapphires.
$219
This cross pendant is unlike anything else out there, designer Marla Aaron brings the luxe to the outdoors with this hardware carabiner inspired gold cross pendant.
Pair it with your favourite chain to flaunt your rebellion streak.
$880
Contrasting 14K yellow gold and white diamonds make this dual cross ring from Bloomingdale’s a worthy addition to your collection.
$1050
Chic yellow gold & diamond cross ring from the Sydney Evan brand by designer Rosanne Karmes.
$595
Evil Eye:
Since centuries, mankind has been wearing talismans in his attempts to ward off curses and seek protection against the evil forces. Traditionally jewelry of such kind was primarily made with blue glass beads and it still continues to sell in the original form.
In recent years, independent designers have come out with a sleeker and dainty versions of this motif allowing women to pair them with their daily outfits.
Designer Suzanne Kalan has been a trendsetter in popularizing baguette diamonds in her ‘Fireworks’ collection.
Check out this exquisite evil eye necklace crafted in 18K gold and studded with striking baguette diamonds with a large round turquoise stone in the center, apt to ward off the negative feelings in this crazy times of 2020.
$3200
Featured here is New York based designer Meira T’s 14K yellow gold evil eye necklace with a blue sapphire in the center surrounded by white diamonds and adorned with the trademark dangling diamond charms.
$650
Get your share of the rose gold allure with this enchanting locket style evil eye necklace in hammered finish by New York based acclaimed designer Penny Preville.
$2995
18K rose gold evil eye diamonds and turquoise earrings from designer Netali Nissim.
$2800
Hamsa:
The Hamsa motif is a palm shaped amulet symbolizing the Hand of God. Considered as a protective symbol, it is believed to provide it’s owner health, happiness, luck and good fortune.
Designer Anne Sisteron’s stunning Hamsa charm pendant featured above is crafted in 14K yellow gold and set with sparkling white diamonds and makes for a great daily wear item.
$1395
Yellow gold & diamond hamsa necklace with a blue sapphire in the center from EF Collection.
$595
Om:
Om or Aum is the highest sacred sound and spiritual symbol in the Hindu culture. It is considered as the basic sound of the universe and chanting it energizes our senses and connects us to the divine energy. Millions of Indians believe in the power of this auspicious symbol and it holds a sacred place in their rituals and traditions.
The ‘Om’ pendant from Sydney Evan makes for a good spiritual companion and is crafted in 14K yellow gold with white diamonds.
Sterling Silver Om Pendant with a chiselled look from designer Alex Woo comes with a ball chain and looks swell.
$148
Star of David:
The Star of David, also known as the Shield of David is an ancient Jewish symbol of protection and is a widely recognised symbol of Judaism.
The sophisticated pendant from the iconic house of Tiffany is crafted from platinum and set with white diamonds and makes for a perfect everyday luxury wear.
$2700
Made in Bali, John Hardy’s artisan crafted jewelry has a loyal following for their chain inspired collections.
The Star of David necklace is available in 18K yellow gold and white diamonds.
$1200
18K Yellow Gold & Diamonds Star of David Necklace from the Princess Collection by Roberto Coin.
$1750
Crescent Moon & Star:
The beautiful crescent moon and star charm by designer Alex Woo is crafted in sterling silver and pairs up perfect for everyday wear.
$148
Prayers:
Yes please! This ring from James Avery is a sweet looking reminder on the positive effects of praying.
$52
Lucky Charms:
It is believed in the Irish culture that anyone who finds a four leaf clover is destined for good luck as each leaf of the clover represents faith, hope, luck and love.
The necklace from French brand Nouvel Heritage features a four leaf clover in 18K rose gold set on a halo of white diamonds.
$1550
This charm necklace from designer Jennifer Meyer equips you from with all ammunition against any negative vibes with the 7 lucky symbols of horse shoe, four leaf clover, heart, Om, number 13, elephant and the evil eye.
$3950
These lucky little single studs from Sofia Kaman are fun to wear either individually or mixed and match with other charms to create your own personalized look.
$220
Even though the start of the year has been tragic, we can all hope and pray that by the end of this year, our lives return to normal and the collective human race overcomes this difficult time.
Salty Sapphire 