Jewelry: The Limits Of Whimsey

I love a bit of whimsey in fashion especially when it takes the form of jewelry pieces that have character and presence. This said, I can't for the life of me understand the appeal of jewelry that involve unappealing motifs or weird references. For instance, I don't understand the appeal of skull heads which for me symbolize hazardous materials or worst yet, death. I also don't understand the pieces featured below by fine jewelry designer Delfina Delettrez. When I look at these pieces, the eyeball motif only serves to remind me of high school biology class which involved dissecting a bovine eye - memorable less for it's educational value than for it's "yuck factor" (not to mention the nauseating smell). Perhaps I'm too squeamish or perhaps I'm just not cool enough but I believe jewelry should be about beauty and light, not spare body parts.

Sincerely,

The Luxe Chronicles

All jewelry by Delfina Delettrez, Fall/Winter 2008. All photos by Denko Ivanisevic, courtesy of Style.com.

Comments

[Helene]

A very good point Stephanie. I proudly wear several pieces by American fine jeweler David Webb featuring animals - the interlocking dragons cuff and the black & white enamel zebra bangle are my favorites. I didn't always like such bold motifs but I've since been seduced by their distinctiveness and character. They have a way of making a simple black turtle neck and jeans supremely chic and glamorous. There is something about human body parts in jewelry however that quite frankly repulse me. To each their own?

Helene

[stephanie seymour in Italy]

I once bought one of those silver fish that move each and every joint (do fish HAVE joints)? My idea was that it was ugly and that I would learn to like it. Actually, it was a pretty correct sentiment, because I DID learn to like it. So, considering this, sometimes the ugly things get better, we start to see something good-looking in them. Might be the case of these...plus they are original, artistic, conversation pieces...see...many things that a mere "pretty" piece would lack.
Stephanie Seymour, artist in Italy