A Spark of Something Wonderful
Elva Fields
From one of our favorite customer's beloved and extensive collection of Elva necklaces, a group of nearly 20 necklaces returned to our studio to be Re-Vintaged now that this lovely lady is downsizing and more selective in what she is able to wear. Many of her necklaces have never been worn and remain in immaculate condition (most still featured their original hand-written and hand-tied tags!) Of offering this batch of necklaces, our client says, "I am thrilled with the thought that my pieces may go to someone who will treasure them as I do the ones I wear. It had bothered me for years that [some of] my 'beauties' sat in a drawer, not worn, not enjoyed. I did love looking at them and admiring their creativity. But, now I hope someone else can wear and cherish them. My students always loved my necklaces; sometimes I got their attention when they commented. I loved that! But, now retired and with no one to leave my jewelry to, I am pleased to know it will be in the hands ( necks ) of others." It feels especially meaningful to share this client's collection on the occasion of our 20th birthday, as she has been along for the ride for more than half of that journey, and we are grateful for her encouragement, support, and kindness through all of these years.
Unworn since its creation as an integral part of our Holiday Collection in 2019, we left this one in its original layout, as it was - and still is - such a special design. (We've not made anything like it before or after, and it is a thrill to have it back in the studio again!)
From a time when matches were of great value and use, this antique elephant not only kept them safe and dry within its hinged interior, it also provided a striking surface with which to light them. The elephant likely suspended from a belt or vest and was highly prized. (So much so that its original ivory tusks are no longer present, though, if you prefer, we have some vintage ivory resin that might replace them with subtlety and grace.)
We decided to honor this beautiful and rare design (like its beautiful and rare counterpart in nature) with beads equally prized and celebrated for their beauty; hand-wrought silver beads from Mali and faceted brass beads from India set a stylish and stunning stage for the pachyderm, and we used the original embossed silver chain at the center and at the backs of the strands to pay homage to the elephant's original setting, while simultaneously elevating its presentation with a bit of glamour. Because the beads are hollow, the necklace is entirely lightweight and lovely, and measures 19" length, shortest strand. (Elephant measures just over 2" width.)
(Here's a link to this necklace's original listing in our Archives.)
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