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Ancient cultures, with their wealth and mysteries, exert a profound influence on our imagination, stimulating our creativity. The remnants and artifacts they left behind, silent witnesses of a bygone era, continue to captivate and inspire, offering an inexhaustible source of ideas and motifs for jewelry. These treasures of the past, whether they are objects of art, symbols of ancient beliefs, or legendary tales, are open doors to forgotten worlds, vanished civilizations, and distant cultures. They invite us to explore and reinterpret ancestral traditions and techniques, adapting them to our time and sensibility while preserving their essence and authenticity. By drawing from this rich heritage, we can create unique and timeless pieces that tell ancient stories and evoke deep emotions, all while embodying the art and beauty of their era.
To explain our jewelry inspired by different civilizations, we begin our journey through history by starting from the abstract to reach the concrete, from allusion to history to arrive at a more direct representation, that of archaeological replicas.
Each piece of jewelry is a story to tell, a memory to preserve, a heritage to pass on.
Our jewelry serves as witnesses to history, fragments of time and space that capture the essence of different eras and cultures. Each piece is a story in itself, a journey through ages and continents, a tribute to the richness and diversity of humanity.
The crosses, fleurs-de-lis, and shields evoke the medieval period, an era of knights and castles, of faith and war. The arabesque leaf motifs recall the sumptuous tapestries of the Baroque period, an era of opulence and splendor, of refinement and decadence. The Greek key and diamond patterns, found on several of our creations, as well as the botanical and animal motifs of Otomi textiles, draw upon Mexican culture, a culture rich in traditions and symbols, in colors and textures, in stories and legends. The spirals evoke the Neolithic and the Celts, an era of mystery and magic, of rites and beliefs, of close ties with nature and the cosmos.
A quick glance at our jewelry catalog will quickly reveal the influences used.
Here is a list of links to get access to these themes: ;
There are stories from the past that transcend the visual to be passed down orally, from generation to generation. These stories, often in the form of proverbs, maxims, or quotes, resonate through the centuries and are deeply ingrained in our culture. They are like precious jewels, treasures of wisdom and knowledge, that we love to take up and polish to adapt them to our time and aesthetic sensibility.
In the abstract realm, particularly in the sciences, simplification of interpretation is often necessary to make concepts achievable. For example, the complexity of mathematics can be approached in a more tangible way through the Fibonacci ring, which takes its name from the famous mathematical sequence. This sequence, represented in the form of a spiral, is found in many natural phenomena and living structures, providing a visual and concrete perspective on the beauty and harmony of mathematics in the world around us.
The Vitruve ring, inspired by the famous drawing by Leonardo da Vinci, is an ode to the harmony and perfection of human proportions. This drawing, based on the writings of the Roman architect Vitruvius, explores the ideals of beauty and balance in the human body. By adopting this drawing, the Vitruvian ring becomes a symbol of the aspiration for perfection and harmony, reminding the wearer of the importance of balance and symmetry in life.
One last example could be the Darwin ring, inspired by Charles Darwin’s theory of human evolution. It pays homage to the complexity and diversity of life on Earth. This theory, which revolutionized our understanding of the origin and diversity of species, is represented in the design of the Darwin ring. This ring, with its evolutionary shapes of man, is a reminder of the constant adaptation and transformation of life, and of the beauty that lies in the diversity and uniqueness of every living being.
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The creation of a piece of jewelry is a process that begins with a passionate exploration of ancient civilizations. This can manifest itself through the diligent reading of specialized books or through enriching visits to museums, where each artifact tells a fascinating story. Our attention is often drawn to archaeological objects that are not widely disseminated or well-known to the general public, as they carry an aura of mystery and authenticity.
The objects we choose are rarely or not at all reproduced. We generally avoid mass-produced historical jewelry from the Chinese industry, preferring to focus on unique pieces or rare reproductions. These pieces must convey a message, a feeling, as much for you as for us.
Our choices are sometimes crowned with success, but sometimes also disappointing, from the first step of reproduction in the form of a drawing. It also happens that, during the manufacturing process, when we hold the physical piece of jewelry in our hands, the result is not as attractive as expected. It is important to note that not everything is always achievable and that not all projects necessarily yield a satisfactory result with our working method. However, these challenges push us to push our limits and constantly seek new techniques and materials to improve our craftsmanship.
When a piece of jewelry finally arrives in our shop, it is a testament to its success in successfully overcoming all these trials. As you can imagine, many projects and experiences do not reach this final stage, being discarded along the way. Only the jewelry that meets our standards in terms of quality, design, and aesthetic appeal have the privilege of finding their place in our collection.
Australia is a country rich in history and archaeological remains, offering a fascinating testimony to the life of the indigenous peoples who have lived there for millennia. The Aboriginal people, in particular, have left a cultural heritage deeply rooted in their communion with nature. Their rock paintings, which date back thousands of years, are poignant testimonies to this intimate relationship with their environment.
These paintings, often made in caves or rock shelters, depict a variety of subjects, ranging from animals and plants to hunting and ceremonial scenes. They are executed with great artistic skill, using natural pigments and sophisticated painting techniques.
These rock art works are not only artistic expressions but also means of transmitting knowledge, traditions, and stories. They testify to the depth of Aboriginal culture and its spiritual connection to the land. By studying them, we can better understand the richness and complexity of Aboriginal civilization, as well as the importance of preserving and respecting their cultural heritage.
The Kiro Kiro aborigine ritual Necklace is a striking example of the depth of the relationship between Aboriginal people and their natural environment. It draws inspiration from a rock painting dating back to 10,000 years before Christ, a poignant testimony to the long history of Aboriginal culture.
The Aboriginal Kiro Kiro rock paintings are characterized by anthropomorphic figures, often accompanied by ritual accessories such as bags, pom-poms, and stylized headdresses. These artistic representations are often associated with rituals, initiation rites, or shamanic ceremonies, offering a fascinating glimpse into Aboriginal spirituality and culture.
This particular painting has captivated our attention with its elegance and finesse in the representation of the characters. Every detail is carefully executed, testifying to the artistic skill and depth of cultural meaning behind each element.
By wearing this necklace, one can feel a tangible connection to the traditions and beliefs of the Aboriginal people, while celebrating their rich artistic heritage.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of Australia’s Aboriginal people, we recommend the following books:
Oceania, also known as the Pacific Islands, is a region we love to explore. It is not only about its magnificent paradise islands, but also encompasses everything that revolves around these cultures of great navigators. Their beliefs and imagination are notably reflected in the famous Maori tattoos, which have conquered the world. These patterns have already inspired some of our jewelry, but during our research, we have discovered other objects that reflect the imagination of the Oceanians.
A captivating example is that of this shield from the Elema culture, originating from the Gulf of Papua. Its distinctive "U" shape, carved from wood vibrant with colored pigments, intrigues at first glance. Adorned with geometric patterns and friezes of triangles, its surfaces also reveal the presence of multiple eyes, each carrying within it a mysterious symbolism. Fascinated by this work of art, we created a pair of earrings that we named Oceanian shield. Currently, this iconic object from the Pacific Islands is safely housed within the collections of the prestigious Brooklyn Museum in the United States: Brooklyn Museum Collection.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of Pacific Island, we recommend the following books:
The ancient worlds of Greece and Rome are undoubtedly among the most famous in human history. Their heritage is of unparalleled richness, steeped in a mythology and imagination that continue to captivate minds through the ages. The epic tales of ancient Greece, such as the Iliad and the Odyssey, or the legends of Rome, such as those of Romulus and Remus, have shaped our understanding of history and culture. The gods and heroes of these civilizations have inspired works of art, plays, poems, and novels, and their influence is still felt today in our language, philosophy, and politics.
The Spartan shields cufflinks are more than just fashion accessories. They are the result of a custom order, designed to embody the heritage and bravery of the warriors of the city of Sparta. Every detail represents the famous shield of the Spartans, marked by the traces left by battles, testifying to their courage and determination on the battlefield. These cufflinks also bear the symbol of the letter lambda, an emblem that the warriors of the Greek city proudly displayed to affirm their origin from the region of Laconia.
We also had the honor of creating the Phaistos pendant, named in homage to the famous ancient disc from which it draws its inspiration. This custom-designed piece of jewelry reveals a part of the ancient object, accompanied by a carefully selected gemstone. The original disc, made of clay, was discovered during archaeological excavations of the Minoan palace of Phaistos, in Crete, and could date back to the 2nd millennium BC. It is adorned with complex symbols, engraved using a punch, on its two faces. However, the exact meaning of these hieroglyphs as well as the authenticity of the disc itself remain subjects of debate among experts.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of Pacific Island, we recommend the following books:
Africa is a continent of immeasurable richness, although often superficially approached in our school curricula. It is a territory with multiple facets, where each region, each country, each people has its own history, its own culture, and its own traditions. From the vast deserts of the Sahara to the tropical forests of Central Africa, from the majestic mountains of the Atlas to the white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean, Africa offers an incomparable geographical and natural diversity. But it is above all its human wealth that is remarkable: millennia-old civilizations, varied languages and dialects, ancestral traditions, and vibrant arts and music.
The Katanga earrings are inspired by a copper axe, an iconic artifact of the Songye ethnic group from the Katanga region in the Democratic Republic of Congo. These axes, with their unique design, testify to exceptional craftsmanship in forging, revealing precise control and a deep knowledge of metallurgical techniques. Every detail of these axes, from their shape to their finish, is the result of artisanal mastery passed down from generation to generation.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of Africa, we recommend the following books:
Another fascinating culture, that of the Nordic tribes, has also captured our attention. These peoples, often referred to as "Vikings," were intrepid adventurers and warriors, sailing the northern seas and exploring distant lands long before the age of great discoveries. Their exploits and heritage have left an indelible mark on history, and their mythology, rich in gods and heroes, continues to inspire epic tales and works of art. The Nordic tribes also left an impressive material legacy, with crafts and jewelry of great beauty and finesse. It is this cultural richness and aura of mystery that attract and inspire us to further explore this fascinating civilization.
For these creations inspired by Sami culture, we worked with two ancient drum skins, true treasures of Scandinavia. The drum, in the Sami tradition, is much more than just a musical instrument. It is a sacred link with the spirits, a guardian of the memory and cosmovision of this Nordic people. Adorned with symbolic motifs, these drums guide the shaman in his spiritual journey, allowing him to communicate with the forces of nature and ancestral spirits.
The first drum, called the "shaman drum," comes from Lule Lappmark, a region located in Sweden. On its skin, one can admire the sun, a symbol of life and light, accompanied by the goddesses Ahkka and the moon, representing duality and balance. In the lower part of the drum, anthropomorphic and theriomorphic figures, half-human, half-animal, evoke the spirits of nature and ancestors.
The second drum, named the "Sami drum," is a true work of art that recounts a mythical adventure of the god Thor and the great serpent Eymer. On its skin, three universes are represented: Asgard, the paradise of the gods, Midgard, the land of men, and Niflhel, the realm of the dead. This epic fresco is a tribute to Norse mythology and the power of the stories that have shaped the culture of the Scandinavian peoples.
We had the privilege of exploring the Galdrastafir twice, Icelandic magical symbols of great historical and cultural richness. These symbols, drawn from old grimoires from the 17th century, probably have an even older origin, dating back to the medieval period. They are formed from Celtic runes and have different functions, the most important of which is protection.
The first piece of jewelry, a ring named Vegsivir, takes its name from the Galdrastafir it carries. This symbol, also known as the "Viking compass," is supposed to guide its wearer through the trials of life, ensuring a safe and protected journey.
The second piece of jewelry, a pendant named Iceland Rune, is a powerful talisman that carries two Galdrastafir, one on each side. On the front, we have Ægishjálmur, a symbol that, according to legend, would confer invincibility in combat and protect its wearer. On the back, we have Vegvísir, a symbol that guides travelers through storms and bad weather.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of nordic and viking culture, we recommend the following books:
Mexico and its pre-Hispanic cultures hold a special place in our jewelry collection, due to the richness and diversity of the ethnicities and cultures that populate this country. Our catalog is full of references to the Aztecs, Olmecs, Mayans, Otomis, Huicholes, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs, to name just a few. These ethnic groups have left a cultural and artistic legacy of great value, which continues to inspire our work.
The last two groups, the Zapotecs and the Mixtecs, are native to the state of Oaxaca, where our workshop is located.
One of the first series of engraved jewelry that we designed in the EmmanuelleGuyon workshop is inspired by the Maya calendar. This aesthetically fascinating object stands out for the variety of its glyphs, representing each day, month, and year. This technical feat testifies to the precision of the Mayan calendar, one of the most sophisticated calendar systems ever devised by man.
To create these jewels, we had to master the calculation of dates in the Mayan system, in order to personalize each piece according to the date desired by our clients. You can find these creations in our shop, in the form of pendants, earrings, brooches, and rings. For a more detailed and informative explanation of the Mayan calendar, we invite you to consult the following page:
The remarkable work of the "Mexican Greeks," which can be admired at the archaeological site of our neighboring village, Mitla, has profoundly influenced our artistic approach. The delicacy of the assemblies and motifs traced on these works testifies to an exceptional artisanal mastery.
The Greek motifs, present in many Mexican cultures, offer a wealth of variations and regionalisms, and even transcend national borders. Their context of use is just as varied: they are found on the facades of temples, noble residences, on jewelry, and even in tombs. Despite their omnipresence, there is still no universally accepted interpretation of these motifs. Depending on the patterns, they can symbolize the cycle of life, water, eyes, the serpent, or even the sacred diamond.
To illustrate these motifs, we chose to draw inspiration from the treasure of tomb 7 of Monte Alban. This archaeological site, located in Oaxaca, was the capital of the Zapotec empire until about 800 years after Christ. A few centuries after its abandonment, the Mixtec population buried an important figure there, perhaps a woman associated with the cult of water. She was accompanied by the largest treasure ever discovered in Mexico, which is now exhibited in the regional museum of Oaxaca de Juarez. Among these treasures were a series of rings that we have included in our collection.
We have designed a ring that we named "Tesoro zapoteco," in homage to the fabulous treasure discovered at Monte Alban. Engraved in silver, this ring features a geometric motif of Zapotec origin, captivating with its profound symbolism. Its spirals likely evoke the movement of water, while the stepped representations suggest the cycle of life. Traditionally, this Zapotec motif is often associated with the image of the serpent, a powerful symbol of water and fertility in Zapotec culture.
The second ring, from the treasure of tomb 7 of Monte Alban, is known as the "serpiente de agua" or "water serpent." This motif is common and can also be found on the facades of palaces in Teotitlan del Valle or in tombs in Yagul. It is often compared to eyes formed by the body of a serpent, symbolizing water and the rain god, Cocijo. This representation is rich in meanings, evoking fertility, regeneration, and the cycle of life.
The last ring, named Ga Yixe, derives its name from the goddess "9 herbs," whose priestesses may have occupied tomb 7, where this piece was discovered. We have chosen to only include the part of the ring from this jewel that is present in the gold and silver tomb.
We have also designed a series of Mexican pendants inspired by the glyphs and pre-Hispanic symbols found in the writings engraved in stone or on codices. Each piece is an artistic and symbolic representation of the heritage of this ancient culture, offering wearers a tangible connection to the past.
We have created two pendants inspired by the Ollin motif, or "movement," from Aztec writing, each with a distinct interpretation. The first, simply named Ollin, symbolizes movement and shaking, while the second, Nahui Ollin, is more complex, representing the four movements of the sun between solstices and equinoxes. This motif is drawn from the Aztec "book" called Codex Borbonicus, which is a valuable source of information on the cosmology and religion of the Aztecs. Each pendant is an artistic representation of the Aztec worldview.
Another glyph that we have adopted is that of the rabbit on the moon, taken from the famous Codex Borgia, dating back to the 16th century. This fascinating symbol represents the moon goddess, Metztli, accompanied by the rabbit on the moon. Upon further exploration, we discover that the silhouette of this rabbit is mentioned in many cultures around the world, revealing its universality and cross-cultural significance in mythological imagery. This representation of the rabbit on the moon transcends cultural boundaries, offering a fascinating perspective on the ancestral narratives that have captivated the human imagination throughout the ages.
We have also selected two representations of hands of Olmec origin, a Mexican civilization often considered the "mother culture," which gave rise to many subsequent developments. This civilization thrived from 2500 BCE to 500 BCE. The two pendants, derived from seals, are named "Olmec hand" and "Creator power." In pre-Hispanic cultures, the hand is a symbol of creative power. This symbol transcends cultural boundaries and is recognized in many cultures around the world, evoking skill, craftsmanship, and the ability to create and shape the world around us.
To stay in the same spirit, we have designed a pendant inspired by an Olmec stamp, representing a foot. This motif evokes movement, symbolizing the shift from one point to another. We named it "Movement" because it represents a foot nested within another, suggesting the idea of steps. This pendant embodies the dynamics and energy of movement, reminding us of vitality and constant progression in life.
We have also chosen a glyph for the "Eclipse" pendant. This motif is derived from the Codex Bordonicus, an Aztec document. In the upper part, it represents a sun, while in the lower part, it depicts the night dotted with stars. This glyph evokes either an eclipse or the cycle of day and night, symbolizing the duality and interconnection between light and darkness, day and night, the sun and the moon.
We have decided to create earrings by grouping different symbolic glyphs for the Mayans. We started with the set called "Mayan cardinal points," composed of four pieces representing the glyphs of the four cardinal points: east (Lak'in), west (Chik'in), south (Nojol), and north (Xaman). These glyphs are of great importance in the Mayan culture of Mexico, as they are closely related to the concept of the cycle and the course of the sun, the main god of their pantheon, to which life and the universe are intrinsically linked.
We have also created a pendant replica of an Aztec stone drum that we named Xochipilli, after the god of music, love, games, beauty, dance, flowers, and poetry, who is depicted on it. This ritual instrument, called a teponaxtle or horizontal drum, was used in ceremonies to accompany dances and songs dedicated to the deities.
For one of our clients, we designed a pendant representing a major god of the Maya pantheon, Kukulkan, also known as the feathered serpent. Kukulkan is the god of the four elements, the creator, and the symbol of resurrection and reincarnation. He is also associated with the vital element for Maya civilization: corn. We chose to use the representation of the god from lintel 15 of structure 22 at the archaeological site of Yaxchilan. In this representation, we can see Wak Tuun, the wife of King Bird Jaguar IV, in a ritual where she offers her blood to obtain a vision of the serpent-vision Kukulkan. At the client’s request, we added a turquoise stone, symbolizing water, to enrich the pendant and reinforce its symbolic meaning.
In the same vein, we have also designed another pendant on the theme of the feathered serpent, simply named "Feathered snake," but this time of Aztec origin. This representation of the god Quetzalcóatl comes from a tepetlacalli in the Hackmack collection, whose lid is carved with this representation. Dated from 1502-1520 AD, it probably served to store offerings, ritual utensils, or the ashes of deceased rulers.
Quiquiztil is a pendant that we designed based on the drawing of a carved musical conch. This original object represents the head of a Maya ruler from the Classic period (250-400). It probably comes from the northeast of Guatemala and is now preserved at the Kimbell Art Museum in Texas, USA. This musical conch was used in rituals by priests to call for rain, but also by warriors to celebrate a victory.
The pendant we’ve named Mesoamerica is a custom order, a piece designed specifically to meet our client’s unique desires. While this motif has been widely used in the making of many Mesoamerican-themed jewelry pieces, our client wanted a unique touch by integrating custom glyphs on the back.
The main motif of this pendant is inspired by the central part of the Aztec Sun Stone, sometimes referred to as the Aztec Calendar. This imposing stone, now housed in the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City, was likely used as a Cuauhxicalli, a receptacle and altar for sacrifice. It is dated to 1479.
In our interpretation, we chose to represent only the first circles of the calendar. The first circle depicts a hybrid head combining the sun god (Tonatiuh) and the earth goddess (Tlaltecuhtli), symbolizing the union between heaven and earth. In the second circle, we have symbols representing the gods Ehecatl, Texcatlipoca, Tlaloc, and Chalchiuhtlicue, thus evoking the legend of the 4 suns, an Aztec cosmogony describing the different stages of the world’s creation. Finally, the last circle of the pendant presents the 20 glyphs of the month’s days, offering a complete representation of the calendar system and time in Mesoamerican tradition. This Mesoamerica pendant embodies both the cultural richness and spiritual complexity of the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of mexican culture, we recommend the following books:
Egypt, much like ancient Greece, is one of the earliest civilizations we become familiar with, and for multiple reasons. Its majestic structures, such as the pyramids of Giza and the temples of Karnak, bear witness to its rich architectural heritage. The pharaohs, these divine sovereigns, have left their mark on Egypt’s history with their absolute power and their cult of death, symbolized by the sumptuous tombs of the Valley of the Kings. Egyptian mythology, with its gods and goddesses possessing supernatural powers, has inspired epic tales and beliefs deeply rooted in Egyptian society. Funerary rites, such as mummification ceremonies and burial rituals, are fascinating practices that have endured for millennia and continue to pique the interest of researchers and history enthusiasts. In summary, ancient Egypt is a true treasure trove of knowledge and discoveries for anyone interested in the history of humanity.
Recently, we had the privilege of discovering a silver jewel of rare singularity, yet little known to the general public: the Hypocephalus. This Egyptian disc, of profound beauty and significance, was carefully placed under the heads of mummies, not only to facilitate the passage to eternity but also to protect the deceased from the demons of the underworld. Indeed, according to Egyptian belief, once the deceased reached this state, they attained a form of transcendence, becoming a "glorious" being, in the image of the god Ra-Osiris, symbolizing eternal life and rebirth.
This necklace, known as the Hypocephalus of Harnetatf, is a piece of exceptional rarity and beauty. The original is currently exhibited at the British Museum, where it fascinates visitors with its history and profound symbolism. It is said to have belonged to the priest Hornedjitef, who officiated at the temple of Amun at Karnak, between 246 and 222 BC, a period of great splendor for ancient Egypt.
In the upper part of this object, one can admire the boat of the god Kneph, also known as Chuouphis, a major deity in Egyptian mythology, a form of Osiris, the god of death and rebirth. The presence of the four-headed ram, carefully engraved, is of great symbolic importance. This ram, a symbol of power and fertility, is often associated with the city of Mendes or the god Amun-Ra, a solar deity revered throughout ancient Egypt. This figure is depicted being adored by baboons, sacred animals in Egyptian religion, symbolizing wisdom and knowledge.
We have created a second Egyptian hypocephalus necklace, known as the Hypocephalus of Djed-Hor. This jewel presents an even greater wealth of hieroglyphs than the first, including a text whose origin has been explained to us in detail. It was discovered in the Egyptian city of Abydos and is dated between 380 and 332 BC. It belonged to the priest Djed-Hor and is currently housed at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, USA, where it continues to fascinate visitors with its beauty and profound significance.
The inscription surrounding the motifs of this necklace is Spell 162 of the Book of the Dead, a sacred text of ancient Egypt. This spell, also known as the "Spell of the Heat of Life," is supposed to confer the vitality and energy necessary to ensure the resurrection of the dead. It is a poignant testament to Egyptian belief in the afterlife and the conviction that life does not end with death but continues in another world.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of antique Egypt, we recommend the following books:
Mesopotamia, often referred to as the "cradle of civilization," witnessed a remarkable rise during the Neolithic period, marking the beginnings of agriculture and human settlement. This region, located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, gave birth to flourishing cities, sophisticated irrigation systems, and technological advancements that profoundly influenced the development of human civilization.
Yet, despite its historical significance and impact on our modern world, Mesopotamian culture remains largely unknown to the general public. Its contributions to architecture, cuneiform writing, religion, science, and many other fields are essential for understanding the evolution of human society.
Mesopotamia, with its city-states like Ur, Uruk, and Babylon, its epic legends like the Epic of Gilgamesh, and its deities like Marduk and Ishtar, continues to fascinate historians, archaeologists, and enthusiasts of ancient history. Its legacy, though sometimes overlooked, is undeniably one of the richest and most influential in human history.
We have recently delved into the study of early writing systems, particularly focusing on the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest known texts describing the adventures of a mythical hero.
The Epic of Gilgamesh, one of humanity’s oldest texts, is a work of great literary and symbolic richness. It immerses us in a world where gods and men coexist, where heroes face trials and challenges, and where the quest for immortality is at the heart of concerns.
The Gilgamesh necklace is a remarkable example of the famous cuneiform writing tablets. We have chosen to present a fragment from a tablet discovered during the archaeological excavations of Kouyunjik, in Iraq. Dating from between 950 and 612 BC, this tablet offers a fascinating glimpse into the adventures of the famous Gilgamesh and has helped maintain the knowledge of this story to this day.
This tablet fragment, with its carefully engraved cuneiform characters, is a poignant testament to the creativity and perseverance of ancient Mesopotamian scribes and reminds us of the importance of preserving and studying our common cultural heritage.
The cylinder seal of the king of Kisch necklace is a remarkable example of the impression that this Mesopotamian tool could leave. The cylinder seal, an object of great symbolic and artistic importance, evokes a major episode from the Epic of Gilgamesh. The scene engraved on the cylinder seal depicts the king-hero Gilgamesh, accompanied by mythical bulls, between two lions, an image that evokes the power and bravery of the sovereign.
This fascinating object is currently housed at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. It was discovered in the tomb of Mesannepada, the first king to appear on the list of the first dynasty of Ur, in the 26th century BC, a period of great splendor for Mesopotamia.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of Mesopotamia, we recommend the following books:
The Neolithic, often referred to as the "agricultural revolution," marks a crucial period in human history. It is an era where humans begin to learn from nature, particularly through the gradual development of agriculture. This agricultural development is accompanied by the discovery of metals, a major turning point that paves the way for numerous experiments and innovations.
It is a pivotal moment where humans start to find their place in the world, albeit in a delicate balance with nature. This close connection with the land and natural cycles will be maintained, with varying degrees of success, until the industrial period, where technological advancements and urbanization will radically transform the relationship between humans and their environment.
Our dedication to the relationship between humans and nature is evident in our page dedicated to "Druids and Druidesses: Communication with Nature." We firmly believe in the importance of preserving this ancestral connection with our environment, which is why we strive to highlight the practices and beliefs that enabled our ancestors to live in harmony with nature.
In our catalog, we offer a selection of archaeological reproductions that testify to this profound relationship between humans and nature. Among them, we have recently added two engraved stelae discovered in cairns, as well as a menhir, a powerful symbol of human presence in the natural landscape. These reproductions serve as valuable witnesses to how our ancestors sought to express their connection with nature through art and symbolism.
We hope that these reproductions will help you better understand and appreciate the richness of the relationship between humans and nature, and that they will inspire you to preserve this precious connection for future generations.
The guardian stone of Newgrange is an Irish archaeological treasure dating back to 3200 BC, which has been transformed into a beautiful pendant. This stone, placed horizontally at the entrance of the cairn, earned the nickname "Guardian Stone" due to its symbolic role in protecting the structure.
Like many monoliths of the time, the Newgrange Guardian Stone is adorned with spiral motifs, the interpretation of which is still subject to debate. Some suggest they represent symbols of water, wind, or serpents, while other archaeologists have proposed they could be maps, with the spirals representing hills or mountains.
Beyond its fascinating motifs, it’s the position of this stone that initially caught our attention and inspired us to create this piece of jewelry. As the guardian of the cairn’s entrance, it symbolizes the protection and preservation of the collective memory of our ancestors.
The second pendant we have created originates from the Cairn of Gavrinis, located in the Gulf of Morbihan, Brittany, France. This cairn, erected on an island, dates back to 4000 BC, making it one of the oldest megalithic monuments in Europe. We chose one of the stones adorning its long corridor, a stone known as an orthostat. It features fascinating curvilinear shapes: nested arcs, cupules, serpentiforms, spirals, as well as some straight lines, chevrons, and vertical polished axe blades.
There are several interpretations of these Neolithic designs, as mentioned in the previous paragraph. However, in the case of Gavrinis, the prevailing interpretation leans towards representations of water, particularly the sea, as this tumulus is situated on water. Indeed, this interpretation is reinforced by the particular and mysterious location of this tumulus, evoking a journey to a secluded and enigmatic island, where druids may have traveled for rituals or special ceremonies.
We chose this stone for its unusual arrangement of curves, as well as for the peculiar and mysterious location of this tumulus. Our imagination retraces the journey of the druids to this mysterious and isolated island, where they could have connected with the forces of nature and the spirits of the water.
The Menhir of the lady of Saint Sernin transports us to the heart of the 3rd millennium BCE, with a remarkable stele located in Saint-Sernin-sur-Rance, in the department of Aveyron, France. This anthropomorphic stele represents a woman with a tattooed face, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life and customs of our Bronze Age ancestors.
We were captivated by this statue-menhir due to its great antiquity and rare representation of a human being, specifically a woman. It attests to the importance given to women in these Celtic societies, where they could occupy various roles ranging from priestesses (druidesses) to warriors, as well as figures of leadership and wisdom.
To discover our Neolithic Cucuteni Venus, we embarked on a journey to Eastern Europe, between Ukraine and Romania, where we found this mother goddess, dating back to between 4050 and 3900 BC, belonging to the Cucuteni culture, one of the most advanced civilizations of the time.
This mother goddess, known as the Venus of Drăguşeni, is housed in the Botoşani County Museum, in Moldavia, Romania. It bears witness to the importance of the role of women in these ancient societies, where they were often revered as fertility goddesses, responsible for the growth and prosperity of the communities.
This Cucuteni Venus is a powerful symbol of the connection between humans and nature, and of the importance of the concept of "fertility" for these new urban centers, whose survival depended on the development and knowledge of agriculture and animal husbandry, with a little divine assistance.
Our Neolithic owl necklace originates from one of the many slate tablets depicting this bird, created during the Copper Age in Spain, between 4500 and 2500 BC. This particular piece comes from Cerro de la Cabeza, in Valencina de la Concepción, in the region of Seville. The extremely delicate and original design of this tablet immediately captured our attention. It could represent a nocturnal fertility goddess, a powerful and mysterious figure who watches over the growth and prosperity of communities.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of neolithic, we recommend the following books:
We took a little detour to the Pictish tribes of northern Scotland, who inhabited the region before the arrival of the Romans. This remarkable people managed to resist both Roman conquest and Viking incursions, a testament to their strength and resilience. Often regarded as a mysterious and obscure people, the Picts have left behind numerous archaeological traces and feature prominently in many historical accounts.
The Picts were renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in jewelry making and stone carving. Their artworks, often adorned with geometric patterns and mystical symbols, speak to their rich culture and deep connection to nature and the spiritual world.
Although the Picts were largely assimilated by the Scots during the first millennium AD, their legacy continues to captivate historians, archaeologists, and enthusiasts of ancient history.
The Picts have left a remarkable legacy of carved stones and slabs adorned with magical motifs, animals, geometric shapes, as well as historical or everyday scenes. Over time, these motifs became increasingly associated with Christian symbols.
Among these stones, we have chosen the Cadboll Stone (Hilton of Cadboll), a large engraved slab dating back to around 800 AD, located on the Tarbat Peninsula in Easter Ross, Scotland. This imposing slab measures 2.34 meters in height and weighs 1.9 tons. Its main subject is a hunting scene, surrounded by traditional Pictish symbols.
The impressive size of this slab compelled us not to reproduce it in its entirety, in order to preserve the visibility of its details.
For the necklace "the Cadboll crescent moon," we have decided to reproduce only the upper part of this slab. This section depicts a crescent moon, intersected by lines that could symbolize broken arrows.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of Picts, we recommend the following books:
Prehistory, that fascinating period marking the dawn of humanity, is an era of mystery and wildness. It’s a time when humans had to adapt to their environment, understand the world around them, and struggle for survival. It’s an era where the first tools, artworks, and religious beliefs emerged, showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of our ancestors. Prehistory is a period that continues to captivate and intrigue us, as it reminds us of our origins and our deep connection with nature.
The Rupestre necklace features a hunting scene from prehistoric times, originating from Barranc de la Valltorta in the Valencian region of Spain. This painting, dating back to 10,000 BC during the Epipaleolithic period, was discovered in the Cave of the Horses (dels Cavalls). It evokes the artistry of these early humans and the effort they had to exert in their search for sustenance.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of prehistoric time, we recommend the following books:
Native Americans of North America are a fascinating culture that we also delve into. These nomadic tribes, living and traversing vast expanses of land, are a remarkable example of life in harmony with nature. They respected the seasons and the game, taking from nature only what was necessary to live. Even though much of Native American beliefs remain unknown to us today, their creativity undoubtedly speaks to us.
Native Americans developed a rich and complex culture, with traditions, beliefs, and practices unique to them. Their arts, dances, and ceremonies reflect their deep respect for nature and their spiritual connection to the world around them.
They also left a lasting legacy in the fields of medicine, agriculture, and craftsmanship. Their knowledge and skills have helped shape the modern world, and their wisdom continues to inspire and guide those who seek to live in harmony with nature.
We embarked on our exploration of North American Native American tribes with the creation of the Yahwera necklace. Its motif comes from a petroglyph found in the Coso Range reserve, California. This motif, along with the interpretive reflections surrounding it, has captured our attention.
At the heart of this reflection lies shamanic vision, a bridge between the spirit world and that of humans, where each symbol holds profound meaning. From shamanism to the concept of the "animal master," symbolizing a protective deity of a particular species, we delve into the complex relationship between humanity and the animal kingdom, between the necessity of sustenance and the preservation of nature.
This Native American necklace thus embodies the sacred respect for nature, a fundamental value for many indigenous tribes who have always lived in harmony with their environment and considered animals as spiritual partners and guides.
To deepen your knowledge of the art and history of Native American, we recommend the following books:
We sincerely hope that this journey through various civilizations and cultures, which we have undertaken together, has inspired you as much as it has inspired us.
We warmly invite you to share with us the works that captivate and enchant you. It is through this exchange that our horizons open to new perspectives and potentially to new, unique, and original creations.
We humbly acknowledge that we are far from knowing everything, but by sharing our interests and passions, we are confident that beautiful discoveries and collaborations await to be explored and realized.