I started collecting owls as a child. I think they are such amazing creatures of the night. Very wise and revered, their beauty so austere and “oh, what big eyes they have!”
About a year ago I met Jody Wolfe a stunning woman with a great sense of style. Her taste in fine jewelry is impeccable. When she commissioned me to make a special piece for her daughter’s graduation, I was very flattered and excited. Her daughter Olivia’s nickname is “owl” – I had the perfect piece in mind.
I hand crafted a ring in the shape of an owl’s face, paying special attention to the intricate detail of the feathers. Using the ancient “lost wax” process – I caste the owl in 18k gold. Once polished to a lustrous glow, it just needed the finishing touch of gemstone eyes. This was the hard part!
I showed Jody an array of colors – blue sapphires, pink rubies, citrines, garnets and tourmalines. After some deliberation she decided on two luscious garnets. After setting the deep red faceted gems, we knew we made the right decision – the owl “came to life”
I was so happy to know she LOVED her gift.
Small world coincidence – after graduation Olivia moved to NYC, one street from my studio! A literal hop, skip and jump away. I saw her recently and was delighted to know she wears the owl all the time. I asked her if it brings her good luck? She said, “So far living in New York has been a great experience. That means yes!!”
Folklore about the owl dates far back in history. In ancient Greece the owl was very revered and powerful. It is the symbol for the goddess Athena; the favorite daughter of Zeus. Athena was the goddess of wisdom; a trait often used to describe owls. She was referred to as “bright eyes” – another parallel to owls. The mysterious bird was believed to be a strong protector. Encouraged to live amongst the citizens, they inhabited temples and the Acropolis in great numbers.
Do you still have a big owl necklace from the 70’s, or ever see them at a flea market? Don’t be shy, give it a try!! Be as bold and wise as Athena. It’s a fun fashion trend and “hoo” can’t use a little something extra looking out for us.
These are two from my collection. You can “update” the chunky gold chain with a ribbon, silk cord, or leather in any color. I paired black ribbon on one of my favorite for a more subtle look.
Related links:
- More from Kimberlin on garnet
- More about Athena at The Obscure On-line Goddess Directory
Kimberlin, I love the owl ring you designed for Olivia AKA Owl and it looks great on her hand. What a wonderful gift!
Also enjoyed seeing your vintage owls. I remember my grandmother had an owl necklace in the 70’s but had completely forgotten about it until I read your post. Thanks for sparking my mind into uncovering a fond memory.
Thanks Kate! Your grandmother sound like she was hip. A fiery red head and trend setter too?
I must admit I’m a little “spooked” by owls – their slowly blinking eyes always me feel like they are looking right through me. But I can appreciate their beauty and you have captured it in that amazing ring. I can not imagine the time and effort that must have gone into making it. The garnets were the perfect stones for the eyes, I can feel them looking at me right out of the picture. You are very talented.
Thank you for your encouraging compliments!! I agree; the garnets are pretty powerful. That’s the effect I was hoping for, same feel as a real owl’s eyes.
You are right, a lot of time did go into the ring. Time and effort will show you the results you want, true of most things worthwhile!!
I had to share the delightful owl on this statement necklace from Louis Vuitton with you. I love that wise face surrounded by flowers, baubles, and bows. How fun!
How cool, Louis and I have something in common! Noticing them printed and embroidered on fabric as well. Seems owls are migrating to our jewelry boxes and closets this Spring.