That saccharine day in the middle of winter which singles scoff at (but everyone secretly loves) has come around again. Why is Valentine’s Day so great? Because everyone, single or not, still hopes for a sappy card and a gift to brighten their day.
So guys, listen up. Boys who are sweet but sadly unoriginal give their girls chocolates and roses. And since no one wants to be “that guy,” here’s a secret: every girl loves jewelry. If you have the means to buy some Tiffany’s bling then more power to you, but you’re definitely in the minority. Luckily for the rest of you, there’s another kind of jewelry that often doesn’t include precious stones or even gold. Say hello to art jewelry — it might just be your saving grace this Valentine’s Day.
Contemporary art jewelry has its origins in metalsmithery, but its currently recognized form really began with radical jewelry movements of the 1960s. Most jewelers would agree that contemporary jewelry is a fast-evolving profession at a crossroads between craft, design and art, falling somewhere between high-end jewelry and wearable art.
The beauty of art jewelry is that it goes beyond the traditional precious metals and stones of classic jewelry, often featuring wood, glass or even synthetic materials like nylon and acrylic. Another modern twist to contemporary jewelry is the use of computers in its design and manufacturing. From detailed etching to custom prototype design, CAD/CAM technology has pervaded the industry and is now standard curriculum in many fine arts programs.
Art jewelry is still very much a niche industry that works like the art market on a smaller scale. Many pieces are bought and sold by collectors and museums, but foray into the fashion industry is promising. Featured in collections by designers like Carolina Herrera and Marc Jacobs, the market for contemporary jewelry is growing. With the current recession it makes sense to buy jewelry made out of relatively cheaper materials. Many boutiques and specialty stores carry contemporary jewelry lines, including several places in Philadelphia.
Erin Waxman Where to Find: Art Star, 623 N. 2nd St. (215) 238-1557 Prices: $80-250 In Three Words: Bold, Sleek, Edgy
Minimalists and those with an eye for all things chic can find a perfect piece designed by Temple alum Erin Waxman. She describes her jewelry as “inspired by nature and Asian aesthetics, with rich texture and a futuristic feel.” Her pieces are largely crafted from sterling silver, occasionally with the use of acrylic for colorful accents. Find her jewelry and more at Art Star, the boutique she co-owns in Northern Liberties.
John Wind Where to Find: Scarlett Alley, 241 Race St. (215) 592-7898 Prices: $20-599 In Three Words: Classy, Romantic, Vintage
The quintessential romantic will fall in love with John Wind’s Maximal Art jewelry. A former Penn student who studied fiction writing, Wind left Penn to pursue fine art in London. His Signature and Valentine collections feature pearls, chandelier crystals and gold charms; the Valentine pieces are playful, while the Signature pieces have an understated elegance. His work has been featured in Vogue, the New York Times, Oprah’s Gift Guide and In Style magazine.
