Jewellery - your connection to the Universe

Jewellery has been a part of human culture for thousands of years, serving as symbols of power, status, and beauty. But did you know that the precious metals we adorn ourselves with have a deep connection to the cosmos? Gold, silver, and other metals found in jewellery are not of earthly origin. They are stardust, formed in the heart of stars through nuclear fusion. When these stars explode in spectacular supernovae, they scatter these elements across the universe. Over billions of years, these elements coalesce to form new stars, planets, and eventually find their way into the jewellery we wear.

The connection between jewellery and astronomy goes beyond the origin of materials. Many cultures have looked to the stars for inspiration in their jewellery designs. The Ancient Egyptians, for example, revered the sun and the stars, and this was reflected in their use of gold, which they believed was the skin of the gods. In Greek mythology, the story of the Pleiades, a group of seven sisters transformed into a constellation, has inspired many pieces of jewellery. Each star in the Pleiades is associated with a precious gemstone, and jewellery representing this constellation often features these stones. The Native American Zuni tribe also has a rich tradition of creating intricate inlay jewellery depicting constellations and celestial bodies. These pieces serve not only as adornments but also as a way to stay connected with the universe and its rhythms. In modern times, the fascination with the cosmos continues to influence jewellery design. From simple moon and star motifs to intricate representations of constellations and galaxies, the night sky provides endless inspiration. Some jewelers have even started incorporating meteorite fragments into their pieces, adding another layer of celestial connection.

So, the next time you put on a piece of jewellery, remember that it’s not just an accessory. It’s a piece of the universe, a tangible connection to the stars. Whether it’s a gold ring, a silver necklace, or a gemstone bracelet, you’re wearing a piece of cosmic history. And who knows? Maybe that’s why we find such beauty in these pieces - because they remind us, consciously or subconsciously, of our connection to the cosmos. With every piece of jewellery we wear, we carry a piece of the stars with us.

image credits: ESA/NASA/AASNova