Tradition × Modernity

My first encounter with "native jewelry" was when a friend showed me Karen silver beads when I was young.

They were slightly distorted beads, small silver grains with corners filed down, and then, I assume, stamped with a hammer with great force.
I remember their unevenness had a certain charm.



Since then, I haven't had the opportunity to approach anything called "native jewelry," but after discovering WAKAN's jewelry, I became interested in learning about its background again.


When I consulted with designer SOU, he kindly lent me some materials,
and I've been learning gradually with my staff.






Through WAKAN's jewelry,
I had a simple question in my mind: why is a necklace called a "breast ornament" rather than a "neck ornament"?
It was because it was an adornment meant to light a fire in the heart when going into battle.

Perhaps I've gained a little insight into the meaning of wearing it on the chest.

One of WAKAN's signature items is the Hopi chain.
The arabesque pattern engraved on the Hopi chain, which consists of links made by coiling ribbon-like flat plates, is not carved with a single chisel. Instead, it is said that chisels with different curves are used, varying the angle and pressure to finish each piece individually.

While carefully preserving traditional handcraftsmanship, a modern beauty breathes within its forms, and perhaps this exquisite balance is what defines WAKAN.

When you hold it in your hands, you can surely feel this background in its weight and texture.

Although my understanding is still fragmented, I would be delighted if you could embrace this background along with the jewelry.

WAKAN SILVER SMITH

Tradition × Modernity

Inspired by native jewelry,
with the concept of Tradition × Modernity, while adhering to their traditional, analog handmade methods, WAKAN aims to create new forms of jewelry, free from preconceived notions.

It is a jewelry brand where each piece is handcrafted.


Click here for the brand page ↓
https://www.p-chouli.jp/collections/wakan-silver-smith