Self expression, individuality, and celebration are some of the driving factors behind the growing popularity of permanent jewelry.
What initially started as a social media trend has now become a widespread phenomenon, with permanent jewelry popups appearing not only in traditional stores but also in unexpected places such as spin studios, hair salons, and farmers markets.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, permanent jewelry is not as intimidating as it may sound. It involves transforming a chain into a bracelet, anklet, ring, or necklace by welding the ends together, eliminating the need for a clasp.
Unlike getting a tattoo, there is no pain involved in the process, and contrary to its name, permanent jewelry can be easily removed by cutting off the chain.
Marisa Ellman, a 39-year-old small business owner in Boulder, Colorado, found herself in a state of perplexity a few months ago when her older sister extended an unexpected invitation to meet, together with their mother, at a nondescript garage located in close proximity to the esteemed University of Colorado.
As Marisa arrived at the designated meeting spot, her eyes were immediately drawn to a sign that adorned the exterior of the unassuming structure, displaying the enigmatic words “Love Saro.”
This enigmatic declaration only served to deepen Marisa’s curiosity, leaving her pondering the purpose and significance of this clandestine gathering.
Ellman and her mother found themselves in a state of bewilderment as they questioned their purpose of being present in that particular setting, but to their delightful surprise, they soon realized that they were about to embark on an extraordinary experience.
This experience introduced Ellman to the concept of permanent jewelry, a notion that had never crossed her mind before.
Being an ardent lover of jewelry, she confessed, “I have always adored wearing jewelry, but when engaging in physical activities such as running, I would habitually remove my bracelets.”
Intrigued and captivated by this novel idea, the trio proceeded to enter the studio where they were greeted with a glass of champagne and the opportunity to partake in a psychic card reading.
As the atmosphere exuded an air of excitement and anticipation, a Love Saro employee gracefully presented an exquisite display of gold chains, each boasting unique designs and varying price points.
The experience at Love Saro is truly remarkable, leaving customers with not only beautifully adorned wrists but also treasured memories.
For Ellman, the significance was even greater, as she had recently lost a bracelet that held the names of her beloved boys.
The dainty bracelets fastened snugly around their wrists became a symbol of something more profound. What sets Love Saro apart is their commitment to providing a unique and personalized experience.
Sacha Jarmon, the 31-year-old proprietor, along with her mother Carol Ritter, 64, opened the first Love Saro boutique in Boulder in November 2020.
The overwhelming success of their venture led them to expand, opening two additional locations in the vibrant Cherry Creek neighborhood of Denver and on the bustling streets of Melrose in Los Angeles.
Love Saro is not just a jewelry store; it is a sanctuary where individuals can express their true selves. Clients have the freedom to customize their jewelry, selecting from an array of charms, gemstones, and designs that resonate with their unique vibe.
Moreover, the establishment offers the option of transforming heirloom pieces or even broken jewelry into something new and exquisite.
Love Saro encapsulates the essence of individuality and craftsmanship, creating a space where cherished memories are forged and timeless beauty is celebrated.
AN IDEA THAT’S NEW, AND NOT
Jewelry, being one of the most ancient forms of expressing sentiment, has captivated the public’s imagination throughout history, according to Abby Lillethun, a distinguished professor specializing in fashion history and human culture and appearance at Montclair State University in New Jersey.
The discovery of skeletons adorned with jewelry at archaeological sites dating back thousands of years attests to the enduring allure of permanent adornments, with some pieces even crafted from precious materials such as gold and semiprecious stones.
Going back to the Mesolithic period, humans utilized shells and nuts strung together on plant fibers to create necklaces, showcasing the timeless appeal of jewelry as an integral part of human culture.
Similar to any fashion trend, jewelry styles evolve over time, but interestingly, what falls out of favor often finds its way back into vogue.
As Lillethun points out, jewelry without clasps is not a new concept, but it has recently gained renewed popularity.
This exemplifies the cyclical nature of fashion trends, where certain elements that were once considered outdated or passé can once again become highly sought after and fashionable.
In contemporary society, there has been a notable trend that revolves around the concept of identifying one’s tribe, fostering connections, embracing rites of passage, and engaging in acts of commemoration.
This trend, according to experts, signifies a departure from traditional practices and represents a novel approach to marking significant moments in our lives.
As the world continues to evolve and individuals seek to establish their unique identities, the importance of finding one’s tribe becomes increasingly apparent.
This tribe, often consisting of like-minded individuals who share similar values, interests, and goals, provides a sense of belonging and community.
In a world that can often feel fragmented and disconnected, the desire to connect with others who understand and support us is a fundamental human need.
Moreover, this trend also emphasizes the significance of engaging in rites of passage, which serve as important milestones in our personal growth and development.
From graduation ceremonies and religious rituals to initiation rites and coming-of-age celebrations, these rites of passage provide a sense of accomplishment, marking the transition from one phase of life to another.
Additionally, acts of commemoration play a crucial role in this trend, allowing individuals to honor and remember significant events, achievements, or losses.
Whether it is through memorial services, anniversaries, or dedicatory ceremonies, these acts of commemoration serve as a way to pay tribute and preserve the memory of these moments for generations to come.
Overall, this trend of identifying one’s tribe, fostering connections, embracing rites of passage, and engaging in acts of commemoration represents a shift in how we approach and mark important moments in our lives.
By recognizing the value of community, personal growth, and remembrance, individuals are able to find meaning and purpose in their experiences, ultimately enriching their lives and contributing to the fabric of society.
BEING ALIKE, BEING DIFFERENT
According to Lillethun, it is inherent within us to possess an innate desire for novelty, a longing for something new and exciting.
However, simultaneously, we also yearn to emulate or identify with those individuals who inspire us or whom we aspire to be like.
This dichotomy of wanting both novelty and familiarity is exemplified in the bustling and highly sought-after Brave Daughters, a permanent-jewelry popup situated in the vibrant Seaport District of Boston.
Owned by the talented Erin Myles, a 41-year-old hailing from the neighboring city of Providence, Rhode Island, Brave Daughters has quickly become a go-to destination for jewelry enthusiasts.
Myles, who honed her skills in metal smithing through formal education and garnered 18 years of experience in the jewelry production industry, keenly observed the ever-evolving trends within custom jewelry.
Motivated by her passion and armed with a wealth of knowledge, she made the bold decision to venture out on her own, establishing Brave Daughters as a manifestation of her creative vision and dedication to the craft.
In 2018, she embarked on a bold venture by establishing Brave Daughters in Providence, a jewelry store that quickly gained popularity for its unique and personalized pieces.
Encouraged by the overwhelming response, she expanded her business to Boston in 2022, opening a second location.
However, she envisions something even greater for her Boston store – a transition from a temporary popup to a permanent brick-and-mortar establishment within the same neighborhood.
This move would not only allow larger groups of customers to visit the store but also offer the option to hire a professional photographer for parties and special occasions, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
Myles, the visionary behind Brave Daughters, believes that this shared activity of selecting and wearing jewelry is truly something special.
Adriana Ballas, a 25-year-old university student, is one such customer who has frequented the Brave Daughters popup on multiple occasions.
With friends and even her boyfriend in tow, she has explored the store’s collection, ultimately opting for permanent jewelry.
Ballas is drawn to this type of jewelry due to its exceptional quality and minimal maintenance requirements. She appreciates how these pieces become an integral part of one’s identity, effortlessly adorning one’s appearance with elegance and sparkle.