The magpie is a bird belonging to the crow family and one of the several animal species able to recognize itself in a mirror. Originally inspired by European folklore and a 19th-century French play, it’s widely believed that magpies have an irresistible attraction to sparkly things, including collecting jewelry for their nests. While new scientific studies have debunked this myth, our curious, whimsical little mascot makes its appearance here and there, admiring jewelry and even stealing our logo ring to add to its nest!
Our new vintage page is up!
Yes, we have added a page to our website to display and sell vintage pieces collected by Maddalena Bearzi in different parts of the world. This curated collection consists of unique jewelry rich in history and culture. Each item has lived a previous life so there may be signs of wear and patina from natural aging, which only enhances their beauty. We believe in one of a kind pieces and sustainability, and this page reflects that. Take a look and let us know what you think!
Need jewelry inspiration? Look around you!
The Italian countryside of Umbria, where my parents live, is one of the wonderful (and still green) places where I get inspiration for my jewelry work. Each piece that I make is one-of-a-kind and tells a unique story. The ring and bracelet in this image are handcrafted in silver and finished with a patina made with household ingredients. This jewelry is available online in our limited-edition collection.
Burn silver... and make unique jewelry!
When I work at my bench, I enjoy using different techniques to make nature-inspired jewelry pieces that are both distinctive and sustainable. I usually use reclaimed 925 or 999 silver and other recycled metals such as gold, copper, and bronze. Mixing metals is one of my favorite things to do! The ring in the image - called relitto rosa - has been crafted using reclaimed silver burned with a torch to create a unique effect. This organic-looking, one-of-a-kind, adjustable piece is inspired by a shipwreck on the bottom of the ocean. And if you like to buy it… just go online here!
An out-of-the-ordinary, handmade gift
Yes, this is an actual candle holder that can be inserted into any soft or semi-soft substrate... like an orange! What inspired this unique design is a wild canna lily. The "canna indica" candle holder is a one-of-a-kind, organic-looking, sustainable, handmade, and versatile piece that can be nestled in a lemon or cradled in an apple. The elegant packaging includes seven pure beeswax, no-drip, smoke-less, thin candles, and a textile bag with the handmade brass piece and a pad to clean it. Ready for a gift out of the ordinary? It’s now available here.
When nature meets jewelry
I am often asked where I get ideas for my one-of-a-kind jewelry. My response is always the same: Mother’s Nature! In my latest book Stranded - published by Heyday Books this year - I describe my relationship with the surrounding wild, and how animals and plants inspire my work as a scientist and a jewelry maker. Here, my dog Genghis holds a copy of the book.