“And leave something witchy.” One of the most evil humans in existence famously uttered these words, and if you know who I’m talking about, then you share my fascination with all things true crime.
As grim as the reference is, this phrase kept popping into my head as I curated this Halloween-themed cabinet of curiosities united by the most unlikely of common elements: pearls.
Normally a symbol of innocence and purity, and all that is light, lovely, and feminine in the world, these pearl jewelry designs subvert that notion by casting the lustrous gems as skulls, or working the pearls into pieces that represent something that scuttles, slithers, or bites.
Other pieces have a dark, foreboding quality, like Rosa Van Parys’ fringy necklace, recalling eerie cobwebs or tortured souls imprisoned in chains casting about in an attic somewhere.
I also included a vintage brooch that nods to those afflicted with coulrophobia—if you know, you know.
And my favorite jewels here are ones that don’t immediately jump out at you as spooky, yet nevertheless evoke something mystical, yet alluring: a spirit clad in black velvet, her face en poudre with wine-red lips, arriving via broomstick to a glamorous party attended by “Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters.”
They know not if it’s dark outside or light…
Top: Geode pendant with Tahitian baroque pearl and black diamonds in 14k yellow gold, $1,750; and Tahitian pearl strand, $1,200; both little h by Hisano Shepherd
Follow me on Instagram: @aelliott718
Follow JCK on Instagram: @jckmagazineFollow JCK on Twitter: @jckmagazine
Follow JCK on Facebook: @jckmagazine
