Welcome to our new Gypsy Jewelry Line - a collection of one of a kind pieces designed to stir the free spirit in all of us - and reconnect us to the Divine Nature in all things. Here is a brief history on the Gypsy peoples, and the adornments that represented not only their lifestyle, but their love of life:
While the word 'Gypsy' is generally used to define a "nomadic or free-spirited person", the gypsy people originated in South Asia between the 8th and 10th centuries - and traditionally had an itinerant way of life, living widely dispersed across Europe and speaking a language (Romani) that is related to Hindi....
Gypsy jewelry has it's roots in a centuries old story of individualism and self-expression, and is about a state of mind - and then represented through the jewelry worn. Most of this jewelry includes semi-precious stones and the ones most commonly used are amethyst, quartz, and labradorite. This jewelry also makes use of the most accessible natural materials such as strings, cords, base metals, and shells. Designs or motifs often include geometric shapes, floral designs, motifs like sun and star, and many spiritual motifs.
The Elements
Unique Vintage Square Link Silver Chain
Miniature( and I mean tiny!) Full 78 Card Rider Waite Tarot Deck - check the zoom feature on the photos showing the full deck - and even the back of the cards!
Hand made embroidered bag with snap - hand stitched silver Witches Heart Drop - Witch's hearts were worn for their ability to ward off evil spirits and protect loved ones. In the 18th century, they were tokens of love, in that the giver was 'bewitched' by their love.
Sterling Engraved The Judgement Tarot Medal...this card refers to a time of resurrection and awakening, a time when a period of our life comes to an absolute end making way for dynamic new beginnings. The image is of an angel, possibly Gabriel, blowing a great trumpet, from which hangs a white flag bearing a cross. A group of people stand, arms spread emerging from graves. The essences of this card are: Awakening, Decision making, Redemption, Reincarnation, Renewal, and Transition
Multiple Antique Kuchi Gypsy Findings, Connectors & Drops
Polished Jade Drop
Vintage Silver Sparrow
Bezel Set Deep Purple Amethyst Angel Wing
Antique Kuchi Witches Heart- the Witches Heart is said to protect the family and home.
Silver Capped Horse Hair - horse hair symbolizes the strength and loyalty of these powerful animals and has long been used as a symbol of enduring power.
Tiny Antique Joseph & Jesus Medal
AAA Quality Faceted Smoky Quartz Drop
Shell- found in our local cove
Polished Abalone Shell Connector
Hand forged Silver Clasp
A note on Tarot: While research has shown that Tarot cards were invented in the 15th Century in Northern Italy, they are also known to have esoteric links to ancient Egypt, the Kabbalah, Indian Tantra, or the I Ching. The tarot is in essence a soul map, a deep psychological guide to self-empowerment as imaged through symbolic cards.
The Measurements
Necklace measures 28 1/2 inches long - and total central drop length is 6 3/4 inches long
Buying a piece from ALTaeRation is buying a piece of history, culture, and magic. Each exquisite piece from this one-of-a-kind shop is a medley of enchanting ingredients that have come together, across time and place, to make a beautiful--and often breath-taking--adornment. I am a repeat customer, and I treasure each ALTaeRation piece I have because I know they are truly unique works of art--but more than that, they each carry a special intention with them (pay attention to the poems and prayers she includes in her descriptions!). Buying a work from ALTaeRation is a total sensory experience--from the faint incense that wafts as you're unwrapping the package, the tinkling sound of charms, the wonderful feel of the elements, and of course, the stunning visual impact of every piece Kathleen makes. I am so happy to have found this artist...her work is truly to be cherished.