Designing for the long haul
Timeless jewelry isn't just about how it looks, its about how its made, how it wears and how it lasts.
My current focus on sterling silver is part of a slow and very intentional shift - towards materials that support longevity, this is my ultimate goal! Working with sterling silver has allowed me to create forms and use techniques that I simply wasn't able to with past materials. As an artist I was looking to expand and grow. Not all metals react the same when it comes to making jewelry.
This is what is so fascinating about jewerly making, there are endless ways to create it, and a lifetime of learning techniques to make beautiful adornments. It has opened up a door. I also began on this journey with the hope that one day I'll work with gold as well. Creating pieces that can last beyond a few seasons. Ones that you keep for years. Maybe even pass them down.
What makes a piece timeless?
Timelessness can be about style yes, but its can also be about how it feels.
It’s more than something you wear once or twice or something that goes with just a few outfits. It is thoughtful design that fits in to your everyday life. It can be minimal, or classic but it can also just be you. That piece you always reach for, slipping it on to complete your outfit, like something is missing without it.
Sometimes it is about meaning. Serving as a reminder of something you hold close. A gift, or picked up to mark some kind of turning point in life. The jewelry I wear for years always seems to have emotional significance behind it, and it always looks just right. That is what timelessness means in my mind.
When I sit down at the bench, I try to channel these ideas. I gravitate towards simple and classic shapes and forms, with extra special details - stones that hold beauty and significance, patterns and shapes that hold meaning and symbolism. This is my design ethos : to balance understated and interesting, with vintage sensibility.
On a more practical note, I have also had to re evaluate where I get some of my materials. With recent (horrifying) political changes south of the border, much of what I was sourcing before, came from the US and now that is no longer a viable option. Unfortunately some things are not as easily found elsewhere. Even beyond that, I am following a desire to create pieces that will hold (or increase) in value and to eventually offer pieces in gold as well. I am choosing to use materials that match the kind of meaning and connection that I want the jewelry I create for you lovely reader to hold.
All this to say, I have not abandoned warmer toned metals completely. I hear those of you that are asking for it, I love love love it tooo!! I am currently looking at how I can reintroduce some pieces in bronze, and eventually in gold in thoughtful and intentional ways.
I just want to design with the future in mind. I want to create pieces that you will keep and wear in 5,10,20 years form now. It is always so humbling to see you wearing and enjoying something that I have made. Making pieces for you to cherish is my biggest joy!
That's it for now, thank you for reading on and joining in as my pieces evolve and grow.
xo,
Rikki (she/her)