It’s hard to know what’s okay to write about now, when everything feels uncertain and even a bit chaotic. No doubt, businesses have hard times ahead, however temporary this situation is (if we can be optimistic, let’s).

Many retailers want to refrain from appearing too pushy in their marketing plans, while others see this as a time to promote the heck out of online sales—both equally understandable tactics, the results of which may vary from customer to customer.

But some shoppers may take it upon themselves to seek comfort in their purchases, and that is a situation where jewelry can really thrive. Talisman jewelry is worn for a variety of reasons, not least of all because it’s thought to offer protection and a bit of luck.

Let’s be frank: This is not the time to promise customers immunity in exchange for their purchase of a piece of jewelry—such a garish claim might send even the most loyal shoppers running—but the simple presentation of a beautiful creation could have the opposite effect, giving us hope that even when things seem grim, creativity thrives and there’s so much to enjoy.

These charms from Harwell Godfrey are ideal—now, when we feel like we could use a lucky charm or two, and later, when we want to look our best out and about (and who says we won’t want to look and feel our best when staying in?).

The pieces are sold separately but look sensational grouped in a trio, as they are pictured here on a golden chain that’s both of the moment and enduring, style-wise. You’ll see one aptly named Talisman, decorated with two rows of Godfrey’s signature triangle motif, which lends a tribal feel that appears alive with magic, the kind that makes you feel good. There’s the evil eye, a common icon but one that sings with the designer’s aesthetic, wedging her triangles together to form the iris in peaceful shades of blue and earthy brown. And finally there’s the triangle (not pictured, but available on the designer’s website), such a simple notion but still commanding in its presentation and colorful with enamel and gold.

You may find yourself and your customers lacking an abundance of optimism at the moment, but find the brightness wherever you can. Jewelry can be that brightness, because—as it always has—it can mean so much more to its wearer than the materials it’s made of. This particular piece brought me brightness on a morning that I was grateful to receive it, so you never know what you can share that will resonate with your shoppers. Maybe they’ll be able to hit the purchase button, maybe they won’t, but when things are looking up, maybe they’ll remember how a piece of jewelry—or a local business—made them feel.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some online shopping to do. Stay safe, stay light.

Top: Foundation necklace in 18k yellow gold with 0.25 ct. t.w. diamonds, $3,300; Evil eye open bale charms in 18k yellow gold with enamel and diamonds, $475 each; Talisman open bale pendant in 18k yellow gold with enamel and 0.12 ct. t.w. pink sapphires, $550; Harwell Godfrey

Brittany Siminitz

JCK Contributing Editor