Imagine if Jewellery could Speak
Existential thought: what if these objects could talk and tell their stories? Earlier this year, I read The Carrier Bag Theory of Fiction by Ursula K. Le Guin (1986), and what stayed with me was her idea of linking the past, present, and future to bring untold stories to light. "It wasn't the meat that made the difference. It was the story" (Le Guin, 1986). An intriguing way to put it—and why people care so deeply: the story builds a relationship.
In December 2023, I photographed a quote from Only Natural Diamonds Magazine that resonated with me: "When you realize this diamond has been here before you, and now you get to adorn it, it's part of the storytelling." This line stayed with me, and I shared it on social media. I've always been struck by the beauty of how something can become part of a person's identity and life and then be worn by someone else, continuing the story along a new path. You can change it, wear it differently, give it new life and meaning, yet still carry and transmit the piece's original story.
Only Natural Diamonds Magazine December 2023
Linking this to my personal experiences and jewellery collection, my grandmother-Nonna-gave me pieces from her treasured collection over the years. I remember she gifted me her Cartier Love bracelet around age twelve (I know, so young!). She could no longer wear it because arthritis had made it too tight, but this bracelet held a special place in her heart. It was one of the first pieces my grandfather gave her when he started working, and she wore it through every chapter of her life—accidents, operations, and everyday moments. It wasn't precious for its monetary value but for the emotions and stories it held-a symbol of "locking" a love. Since that day, I've worn it as my most cherished piece, carrying her story with me. I dream of passing it on to my grandchildren someday, letting their legacy live on. It held meaning before I was born, and I hope its magic will continue, crafting memories long after I'm gone.
I also have one of her necklaces-a gold chain adorned with tiny diamond flowers. It's the piece I get the most compliments on, and I always have a little talisman with it, as if she's in London in spirit with me everyday. The diamonds have been forming for millions of years, a reminder of time's expanse. They'll likely still be here long after I'm gone-a bittersweet thought but a beautiful one, a testament to how jewellery speaks across generations.
After all, jewellery is a form of art that liberates our feelings, a mirror of acceptance, status, or identity, depending on how we see it. Each piece tells its own story through its shape, colour, size, and the unique memories it carries.
Imagine if jewellery could speak-if it could tell us about its formation, the miners who unearthed it, the artists who crafted it, the cutters, polishers, and setters who touched it, each following ethical paths to bring it from one country to another. Each piece would carry the artist's intent and the journey and character of the materials themselves.
Imagine if jewellery could tell us its meaning. Every gemstone is unique, like a big family with many branches, each carrying its own beauty.
It was only yesterday, it seems, that I began to explore styles beyond the classic, neutral jewellery I've always loved. I had the dress, shoes, and bag for a birthday party—but no earrings. I searched from shop to shop in south of France, and in a tiny boutique on a small street, I spotted a pair that stopped me. Gold-plated hoops with charms-a hand, a heart, an eye-something about them whispered of protection, a talisman of sorts. It was simple yet different, opening my eyes to a world of more daring jewellery that stands out and makes a statement. Since then, I've embraced bolder styles and playful designs that make jewellery an expression of personality.
After all, jewellery is meant to be played with-to mix, match, unpair, and savour in moments of joy and sharing. Imagine if jewellery could speak and tell us to let go, take risks, and have fun.
I'm also looking forward to If Jewellery Could Talk, the upcoming book by jewellery historian and expert Carol Woolton. I can't wait to dive into her reflections-they feel like the perfect extension of my own imaginings.
Recently, in a class at Central Saint Martins, my teacher shared a bit about the paper Perception in Education (2014: 32(2)). The idea of vulnerability caught my attention because jewellery is very personal. It shows our soft spots, and wearing it takes courage. Jewellery has its own fragility and strength, almost like it can speak and has he’s own identity.
Think about a wedding, where they say the bride should have something old, borrowed, and blue. Often, these items are pieces of jewellery. They're there for her on one of her most stressful days, not just as decorations but as supporters. They carry stories and prove something real about bonds- whether with a hubby, wifey or family.
It makes you wonder, why do we hold these pieces so close in those big moments? What if they could actually speak during our biggest events?
Jewellery has been there for the big moments and memories, showing my journey and speaking for itself, and I truly believe they are already talking.
Imagine if jewellery could talk. What untold stories would it share?
