People have been making jewelry for thousands of years. Even ancient tribes adorned themselves with ornaments — and many still do today. Why? I once told my jeweler brother that selling modern jewelry is difficult because no one needs it. It’s not food, water, or clothing. He didn’t even blink before replying: “Go ask a few women.” Message received.
For centuries, jewelers have created endless designs in silver, gold, and precious stones. There’s an entire industry dedicated to restoring antique pieces and collecting historic and royal jewelry. So the real challenge becomes: What can a new designer do that hasn’t been done before? Where can a small, independent artist find fresh techniques, materials, or ideas that feel truly original?
In my case, the inspiration was close at hand. A good friend of mine is a master leatherworker specializing in masks, hoods, and hats (see LeatherheadOriginals.com). I’ve long admired his craft. With his guidance, I started experimenting — and that’s how I began fusing sterling silver with premium cowhide leather, creating my new LeatherBack Originals collection of wildlife and safari-inspired pieces.
Traditional fine jewelers would probably cringe at the idea. Leather in jewelry? Unthinkable. Yet years ago my brother designed collections using real elephant and giraffe hair — something that’s neither legal nor ethical today. Leather, however, lets me capture the look and spirit of wildlife in a modern, humane way. And it brings something metal alone never could: a soft, warm feel against the skin. Almost as if the pendant or earrings are gently hugging you.
You can see my first pieces in the LeatherBack Originals collection at SafariGold.com or at safarigoldjewelry.etsy.com. This is only the beginning — and I’m excited to push jewelry designs somewhere bold, unexpected, and unmistakably original.
(C) Martin Foden – SafariGold (R)
Because some journeys don’t end – they become something you wear.
