these earrings represent the energy transfer know as bolting. it is when a plant stops producing fruit and uses its energy to make seeds. it is a time of dormancy, rest, recuperation and planning for the future. the species requires this process as much as pollination.

the once swollen, light green calyx with darker green, or sometimes purple, veins, dries and turns brown. completing the cycle of flowering, this dried calyx cracks open, dropping the seeds of life for next year.

these earrings hang 2.5” from the top of the ear wire. the calyx, about 0.75” square, are cut from a sheet of silver with my jewelers saw. veins were drawn by hand with an electric engraver, which give it the look of a nature drawing. next I dapped them to form what looks like the cross section of a calyx which had been cut open. hanging in front of the open calyx are black beads on a beaded chain, giving the look of seeds falling from the sed pod. the calyx and chain move easily on the ear wire, giving the look of a seed pod being shaken, spreading the seeds of ones future garden.

these spinels measure about 2.5 mm each. they are fixed to the chain by balling up the end of wire threaded through the bead and chain. while this design looks simple, it is a balance of fire and a steady hand. the end result is also a lovely tactile experience which feels like seeds rolling through your fingers.

spinels symbolize strength, protection and rejuvenation. black spinels in particular are associated with resilience and hope. they are said to help one feel grounded as well. considering this represents a seed in this collection, I couldn’t have been drawn to a better stone, and there were many in my stash to choose from. everything does come full circle when you allow space for experimenting in your practice.

please note, these earrings have a shiny finish and are not oxidized. they reflect light and shadows, making is difficult to capture, but more interested to wear.