Dainty treasures

My husband and I have been talking about honeymoon destinations recently. Italy is at the top of our list, and while at dinner at local Italian restaurant we were reminiscing on our trip from a few years ago. It was the trip of a lifetime.

When we got home from dinner, I remembered that we bought a unique piece of jewelry during our travels there. And I realized I hadn’t worn it since that trip - in large part because of its delicate nature and also because of its sentimental value.

I love the idea of souvenirs from trips. My grandparents traveled the world and I remember getting all sorts of trinkets that I cherished as a kid. But as I’ve gotten older, the idea of “stuff” wears me down so I try to be conscientious with my purchases and trips are no exception.

During our visit to Florence, we went on a walking tour of the city. We saw the famous Ponte Vecchio where local artisans share their work, and stopped in one place where the artists were at work creating fine jewelry. It was beautiful and they shared with us the history and passion of their handmade pieces. I don’t wear much jewelry, but I was drawn to one ring with its vintage vibe and dainty details (wow two alliterations in one sentence - you know its good!). We loved the idea of having an heirloom piece to remember the trip by so we made the purchase.

I was so excited to wear the ring, I wore it the next day. We were traveling to another part of the country and during the car ride, I looked down and noticed that the ring had broken - completely disconnected in one spot where the metal was very thin. I was devastated - not to lose the item - but what it represented. I emailed the shop, but unfortunately they weren’t much help and we couldn’t return due to travel.

I took the ring to several jewelers when I got home to no avail. I think they were worried about how fragile it was. Finally, a few years ago, I found a local jeweler who was able to make the repair.

At this point, I was happy to have it inact but never wore it out of fear it might break again. Until the other day.

I often do this - buy things and wait to wear them for special occasions. But lately I’ve been reminding myself that every day is a special occasion! Life is beautiful and fleeting and we must enjoy it now. So I wore the ring. It made me happy. And thankfully, it is still intact!

I’ve worn a few pieces lately that have meaning and was inspired to share.

During our trip to Jackson, I picked up these adorable buffalo earrings from a local gift shop. I wrote about it here. I love the simplicity of the studs and have been wearing them with everything! Again, such a simple piece that holds so much value.

I was recently complemented on my initial necklaces too. I have one for myself and love wearing it solo, and my husband got me one for our dog, too. Then he asked that I get one in honor of him as well! I love these necklaces by themselves or layered, and they make great gifts! Mine has held up through workouts and showers.

Over the years I’ve been collecting more classic, lasting pieces. I love daintier items and like to layer one or two more simple pieces, like this Mejuri link bracelet and this one from Gorjana.

Now is the perfect time to make that wish list in time for Christmas! And the next time you travel, consider making a unique purchase from a local boutique or artisan. I love the idea of jewelry having a story - something you can treasure for a lifetime.