"October is a symphony of permanence and change." —Bonaro W. Overstreet
The change in season to autumn is continuing to inspire me in the studio this October. As the days get cooler and shorter, my list of things to get done before the winter seems to get longer.
I find the upcoming winter holiday season both joyous and stressful. Do you feel this way too? Yet, when I look outside and see the transformation unfolding, it reminds me to be patient and enjoy the process. The seasons are in no hurry and winter won’t be on my doorstep tomorrow. Change is gradual–even if it doesn’t always feel that way.
Sure, transformation doesn’t always come without stress. It’s the same with jewelry making. Silver goes through a process of intense heat and pressure to be reformed and revived.
And like silver, many gemstones are born from extreme conditions created by tectonic movement and hydrothermal temperatures which force minerals to combine and crystalize. Too much (or too little) pressure or heat and the gemstone is vaporized or the chemical process doesn’t occur.
The combination of earth’s complex elements and minerals create a rainbow of vibrant colors, some of which are found in stones such as opals–one of October’s birthstones.
“Humankind cannot gain something without first giving something in return.
To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. This is Alchemy’s First Law
of Equivalent Exchange. In those days, we really believed that to be the world’s
one, and only, truth.” —Hiromu Arakawa
As we experience transformation, it’s important to understand our breaking points. Like silver, there’s a threshold we cannot cross, or the pressure will cause us to crack. There’s a balance between investing energy in outward growth while taking care and doing the inner work we need to do, too.
It’s not always easy but having a personal touchstone to ground us can be an important part of this journey. One that reminds us of our inner strength and draws us back to the moment. Throughout October, this is one of my big focuses in my studio.
Autumn Touchstones
Opal is one of October’s birthstones.
These gems are full of color, contemplation,
creativity
& curiosity.
They’re a reminder to seek joy–
even in change.
The Reflections pendant features an offset iridescent opal to symbolize
new beginnings and to focus
on the present.
October’s Growth & Transformation
As I turn inward for the busy period, I’ve decluttered my studio to make room for more alchemy and creativity.
Follow along as I transform this silver into a new range of earth-friendly earrings. Handcrafted pieces instilled with uplifting optimism, and able to be accentuated with thoughtful gemstones. They’ll make meaningful gifts–or treasured touchstones just for you. Sign up for my monthly newsletter to have moments of meaning delivered directly to your inbox by clicking here.
“Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit,
and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.” —Henry David Thoreau
I’m looking forward to sharing more of my jewelry with you my friend.
What is your favorite piece? Email me and let me know.
Until next time.
In light, love and alchemy,
Kristen
www.flyingsilverstudio.com
