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BTS at the Spring/Summer 2024 Lookbook Shoot

Shooting outside of Charles Haertling’s 1960s “Boulder Eye Clinic” building with Matt Nager and Erika Rodriguez

Ideating on our SS24 campaign concept left me searching yet again for the perfect 1960s/1970s “bubble structure” for a location. I guess it’s a thing for Talisman. Luckily architect Charles Haertling left us with plenty of options in the Boulder area, and we were fortunate to have some connections (thanks Erica Simon!) to his iconic “Boulder Eye Clinic” building on Broadway. What I especially love about this building is the way its sculptural curves mimic the sculptural nature of Talisman’s jewelry. They seemed to be in conversation throughout our shoot, though this wasn’t the only storyline we had going…

Working with my trusty photographer Matt Nager, and our model Erika Rodriguez from Wilhelmina, we reimagined the office building as a crash landed space ship of sorts, with Erika graciously playing the part of our extraterrestrial being… decked out in lots of gold, of course. The result was, dare I say, otherworldly (ha).

Special shout outs are due to my friend Katie Miner, who helped me with styling day-of, as well as to Max clothing stores, Recital boutique, Common Threads Boulder, and COS for wardrobe.

Fun BTS fact: there was an active chiropractor’s office behind this mirrored window. Luckily they didn’t protest us shooting outside. Thanks guys!

Peep some behind-the-scenes footage of this super fun shoot, and then check out our final product here, along with all the newly released SS24 designs!

The jewels

Last-Minute Holiday Gift Guide 2023

We see you, procrastinators, and we are here for you. While the deadline to receive any made-to-order items in time for Xmas has passed, there’s still a slew of goodies on the website that are in-stock and ready-to-ship. Here’s a roundup of some of my personal favs, which are guaranteed to please even the pickiest of folk.

The Conjunct Ring was a new addition this season, and I love its ergonomic, fluid asymmetry. It’s wonderful alone, but also works well in a stack, which makes it an easy gift for those who like to add to their collection of stacked bands.

Hands-down, a shimmering gold herringbone chain looks elegant draped over a bare collarbone. While I love the full-size and mid-size versions too, the Skinny Flow Chain is a perfect everyday piece that adds a lovely amount of shine to your look without being over the top, even at the gym. Also perfect layered with multiple necklaces, making it a no-brainer gift.

These are, in all honesty, my everyday earrings. The Aphrodite Hugs are comfortable enough to leave in for weeks on end, but statement-making enough to make me feel dressed up in just a t-shirt and jeans. I just love them, and I think your recipient will too.

You literally cannot go wrong with bar studs. Everyone needs a pair - they’re easy, great for multiple piercings, and convey a certain sense of geometric, minimalist elegance. The Petite Linear Stud is my latest version for FW23, in a slightly more micro size than its full-size Linear Stud sibling. An excellent choice for anyone on a budget who still prefers to gift heirloom-quality pieces.

The Orbit Bracelet is another newbie for FW23, and has already been wildly popular. The interlocking hook clasp means it stays securely on the wrist, and I find that many like to leave it on, and/or stack it with their existing arm candy. It’s truly the perfect everyday bracelet.

A budget-friendly no-brainer, the Infinite Hoops are a fool-proof gift option in heirloom-quality 14k gold. Wearers can leave these puppies in for months and never take them out. Pro tip for those with multiple piercings: stack with the mid-size and huggie versions ascending up the earlobe for an ultra 90s punk look.

Last but definitely not least, I decided to make one of my personal favorites - the Held Necklace - for last-minute holiday gifting. Juuuuust in case the one you love has been really deserving this year. This piece is all about being reminded that the universe is always holding us, through all the trials and tribulations. What better year to have a reminder of that, no?

Field Trip: LA

The centerpiece of “Queen Califia’s Magical Circle” by artist Niki de Saint Phalle - Queen Califia herself atop her griffin.

This October I had the opportunity to spend some time in Los Angeles - a town that was at one time my home, many moons ago. The trip was equal parts vacation, inspiration, and work. Joined by a couple of my besties who live in the area, I made the most of my 9 days there with a busy schedule of art, beach, nature hikes, architecture, music and more.

Among many things, I had the chance to view the opening of my friend Tomashi Jackson’s art show “Minute by Minute” at Night Gallery, which incorporated hand-embroidered and tatted textiles made by my own grandmother, Carrie Barcus, which I had gifted to the artist. Truly a special moment to see these complex, multi-layered (quite literally and figuratively), collaged works in person - they are POWERFUL! I could feel my grandmother’s utter awe and delight raining down on that gallery as well. You can read more about Tomashi’s show in this wonderful LA Times interview.

A piece from Tomashi Jackson’s “Minute by Minute,” which incorporated hand embroidery by my grandmother as the foundation for her canvas

Detail of hand tatting done by my grandmother Carrie Barcus, used in Tomashi Jackson’s piece

Another work by Tomashi Jackson in “Minute by Minute” at Night Gallery. This incorporates Carrie’s embroidery, as well as Tomashi’s mother’s photography, and the shapes of redlined districts in LA.

Tomashi Jackson’s piece, incorporating photography from her mother, and my grandmother’s embroidery at the bottom edge.

There is a wildly coincidental story from the day when I gifted Tomashi this textile… as we were chatting about my goldsmithing work and Tomashi’s collection of gold chains, we noticed that the edge of this pillowcase read “Cloth of Gold.” Funny how life works! I love that Tomashi then incorporated gold paint into the piece, as well as another piece that utilized Grandma Carrie’s handiwork.

Tomashi in the midst of performance art at Night Gallery

I also made a pilgrimage with my dear friend Tamara, to see my hero Niki de Saint Phalle’s installation “Queen Califia’s Magical Circle” in Escondido - one of the few existing sites of her art in the US. Magical indeed! I cannot even fathom the amount of time it took to cover this entire area in mosaics - much of which was made from semiprecious gemstones! The docent at the site told us that Niki and her team went to the Tucson gem show to buy the stones. I imagine they must have cleared out a lot of dealers’ bins to make this work!

A view of Queen Califia’s Magical Circle

Fragmented selfie at Queen Califia’s Magical Circle

Detail from Queen Califia’s Magical Circle, with mosaic malachite and what looks to be chrysoprase

There were so many details to discover around every turn at Queen Califia’s Magical Circle. Each one tells a story.

Back in LA proper, I had the chance to visit the Neutra VDL House in Silverlake with my friend Symantha. This onetime home and studio of architect Richard Neutra is a place I’ve long wanted to see in person, as a huge fan of mid-century modernism and Neutra in particular. Neutra shares a particular history with my mother’s lineage, who were Austrian Jews. While it may not seem so unusual today, the fact that the original structure for this building was made in 1932 is pretty mind-blowing.

Living room at the Neutra VDL House in Silverlake

Details at the Neutra VDL House - this color palette echoes my recent FW23 lookbook

Last but not least, the trip was capped off by a trunk show at the beautiful Kinship Station boutique in Topanga. I loved hanging with the shop staff, and getting to know their customers more. They’ve got such a gorgeous curation of decor, clothing and jewelry - definitely worth a visit.

Talisman jewels at Kinship Station in Topanga

Symantha and her mug at Kinship Station - a beautifully curated boutique of decor, clothing, jewelry and more

Shopgirl Nadia dons the Ra Signet at the Kinship Station trunk show

That’s a wrap! Until next time LA <3

For Your Ears: Talisman FW23 Playlist

Coming in hot with a little taste of the latest and greatest in music that I’ve been jamming out to while I work in the studio this season… In the true spirit of fall, this playlist is a little moodier, and a little more introverted - perfect for a cozy night in, or a chilly, bundled-up evening out. As per usual, a mashup of rock, synth pop, shoegaze, and electronic, along with some purely vibey, instrumental tracks thrown in. Enjoy!

BTS at the Talisman FW23 Lookbook Photoshoot: The Evans School

An open, and mostly vacant, stairway at the Evans School building in Denver. Currently home to artists and creatives, for now.

Photographer Matt Nager and model Vanessa Luka getting a close-up ear shot at the Evans School studio of Sam Grabowska and Erin McAllister

Deciding on the location for Talisman’s next lookbook photoshoot is always an exciting creative challenge. Each season the look and feel of the brand is greatly influenced by our campaign concept, composition and color palette, and thus, by extension, where that campaign was shot. For FW23, the idea struck me to ask some artist friends about taking over their studio space at the Evans School in Denver for an afternoon… I had spent some time in this incredibly special, once-abandoned school building, and was immediately struck by the energy of the place. Having only recently been offered to a handful of artists for use as studio rentals, this glorious building - full of tall windows and insanely intricate copper railings - sat empty since the 1970s, quietly falling into decay just across the street from the Denver Art Museum. These days, however, the vibe at the Evans School is something else. Sculptors, painters, photographers and the like are using the classrooms - heck, even the old auditorium - to ideate, create and collaborate with one another. Tiny DIY galleries have popped up to showcase the work of folks making art next door. In my estimation, one of the most beautiful things about this space, aside from the building itself, seems to be the fact that there is a definite ambiance of - dare I use the cliched word - synergy and co-inspiration happening among the artists at work there.

Utilizing raw materials from artist Sam Grabowska’s sculpture work as a backdrop for Talisman’s new FW23 designs

None of the residents know how long this gem will last… word has it that the building may be purchased by developers to be remade into a luxury hotel in the near future. And, as sad as that may be (although it has the makings for a beautiful hotel, no doubt), somehow the limited-time aspect of the whole scene - this permeating feeling of uncertainty - lends it a bit of Chelsea Hotel-type magic. Something that is at once almost outside of time and space itself, and yet is entirely ephemeral. To be certain, it is a Time and a Place, in Denver, Colorado, 2023.

Knowing that the opportunity to do something in this magical space might be limited, then, it seemed that the time was right for a photoshoot there. The goal for the shoot, as far as I could see it, was simply to capture some of the magic that is happening behind closed doors at 1115 Acoma Street, and by extension, to delve into the raw materials and processes of some of the artists at play there. A statement, if you will, about how creative imagination can turn raw, even seemingly strange objects into entire worlds of beauty.

Matt Nager shoots a still life scene on Sam Grabowska’s desk. Styling and creative direction by myself, Vanessa Barcus.

Thankfully for Talisman, my dear friend Erin McAllister and her Evans School studio mate, Sam Grabowska, were happy to oblige. So my trusty photog Matt Nager and I were given access to their studio, and all of its gloriously weird objects and supplies. Erin is a fiber and textile artist who also paints on occasion. Her work is as vibrant and colorful and explosive as she is. Sam is a sculptor and multi-media artist whose highly-conceptual work speaks to themes of creating space, in both a literal and psychological sense, as well as themes of safety, trauma healing, and care. Through both artists we found a rich assortment of tactile, textural raw materials to use as a backdrop for Talisman’s latest designs. Another friend, Vanessa Luka, graciously lent her beautiful ears and hands to be photographed in what was otherwise a mostly still-life shoot.

Take a peek behind the scenes here of our day at the Evans School… In the near future, you may just see the scraps and materials we used in our photos come together in one of these two artists’ upcoming work.

Artist Erin McAllister shows us around the studio

XX,

Vanessa

Sneak Peek at Fall/Winter 2023

July and August are the months in which I’m busy dreaming up new designs to be unveiled in the fall. What begins as a sketch, and then a wax carving, slowly morphs into solid gold. You’ll have to use your imagination to picture these rough models as the final product in glistening 14k, but I still thought it might be fun to give my clients a little sneak peek into what I’ve been working on. This is by no means a comprehensive group… there are a few more tricks up my sleeve that will be released when they’re ready, for the record.

The Conjunct Cigar Band and Conjunct Ring are designed to pair together, but can just as easily be worn separately. I’m absolutely in love with them… it took a bit of trial and error to get the asymmetry and leaning angles just right.

This season I found myself increasingly called to create more streamlined, simple shapes that felt like the daily essentials that the collection was missing. Really, I was just getting back to the core of what Talisman Fine Jewelry is all about - everyday heirloom jewelry that still feels sacred and sculptural. Ok, maybe with a wilder piece or two mixed in, because I’m still an artist and I have to express myself as such. Scroll on for a taste of what’s to come.

More views of the Conjunct Cigar Band and Conjunct Ring in wax, before casting into solid, recycled 14k gold.

The conjunction of the Conjunct Cigar Band and Conjunct Ring, hehe

A very pudgy Delphi Ear Cuff. I imagined this as something the Oracle of Delphi would wear while she divinates for her patrons.

Soon to be a hoop… a pair for the Helix Ring.

This piece is artful and a little wild, called the Central Sun Ring… it’s a piece that’s been a long time coming, swimming in my head as a possibility for a year or more. She pairs with the Central Sun Earrings.

Almost finished… these are the Orbit Collar and the Orbit Bracelet, getting ready for final polishing. They’re truly everyday, heirloom pieces. Add charms if you desire, or just wear them alone for a minimalist statement in solid 14k gold. The hooks click shut when you put them on - a sound that I find to be very satisfying.

Turning Your Old Gold Into New Treasure

Custom 18k gold ring, handmade using the client’s own melted gold.

When three different clients approach you within a one month span, all asking if you can melt their old family jewelry down to make something new, you know it’s something you need to look into. While melting scrap gold might sound simple enough, in actuality it’s a little more complicated, and not all jewelers will do it. Most gold refiners won’t return you with the exact same gold you gave them - they’re far too busy for such “small” requests. And simply melting down aunt Judy’s ring in the crucible and throwing it into the new casting is both risky and very costly: not only can that metal become brittle and a little unpredictable, but when done this way, the jeweler needs to come up with enough gold to fill the entire “tree” and “sprue” in the casting (the lines through which the molten gold travels to get to your new ring)… aka that requires thousands of dollars more gold than is needed for the individual piece itself. Hence my earlier statement that many jewelers simply won’t do it.

Pre-casting, the ring is first carved in wax. I wanted this weighty cigar band to have a subtle asymmetry to it, playing on offset angles.

By happenstance, though, I discovered that I actually have a special connection to a gold refiner who WILL return your own precious family gold to you, in a chunk of solid, pure 24k. Luck? Coincidence? Maybe a bit of both. But all of this is to say, that after some time and research, I finally got the process down, and have been able to make these customers new gold jewelry that they’ll love and wear everyday, out of their old gold jewelry that, while heirloom, was wasting away in a box. So why not transform your old 10k, 14k and 18k gold pieces that you don’t love, into something that you do? Nothing more alchemical than that, I’d say. To inquire, just shoot me an email at vanessa@talismanfinejewelry.co.

Fresh out of casting, the ring still has bits of “sprues” attached to it that must be ground off, followed by multiple steps of sanding and polishing to get to the final product.

The finished product! Solid 18k refined heirloom gold. It will forever hold the energy of the client’s family heirlooms.

Field Trip: Cote d'Azur

A sculpture by Germaine Richier is surrounded by sailboats outside of the Picasso Museum in Antibes, France.

Earlier this month I had the pleasure of traveling to one of the most enchanting places I’ve seen on Earth (truly). It was a long-awaited trip, having been postponed several times during the pandemic. So when my mother and I finally set foot upon the stunning Cote d’Azur of France, to say that I was thrilled is an understatement. And y’all, it truly lived up to the hype. Every day I was blown away by the beauty in all directions, both in the natural landscape, as well as the architecture, art, and culture that surrounded me. I was hoping for a trip to really inspire and reset me, and I most certainly got just that.

The stunning medieval village of Eze, which sits upon a mountaintop between Nice and Monaco along the Mediterranean. The village is now home to many artists who sell their wares to tourists.

‘Has this turned into some kind of travel blog?’ you may ask? I’ll spare you the full details of my mother-daughter vacay, but I thought you, dear reader, might enjoy seeing a handful of the things that inspired me creatively on this sojourn. Because lo and behold, you may just see some of these influences come through as I begin working on new pieces for Fall/Winter 2023-2024…

A fisherman in the port of Villefranche-sur-Mer, a small village adjacent to Nice, who mends his net in the early morning sun before heading out to work. The bust at right is of surrealist artist Jean Cocteau, who was a onetime resident of the village.

Chapelle Saint-Pierre, a 13th century church in Villefranche-sur-Mer, re-imagined by Jean Cocteau in the 1950s.

A quick scan of Villefranche-sur-Mer, a 13th century (though settled since prehistoric times) village and fishing port adjacent to Nice. Also onetime home to Jean Cocteau and the Rolling Stones (Villa Nellcote, where Exile on Main Street was recorded, is located here, for those in the know)

The jewels taking a dip in Nice. Pictured here are the Shapeshifter Ring and the Rollo Band.

Late work by Pablo Picasso, at the Picasso Museum in Antibes. Picasso lived here briefly towards the latter part of his life, making works in a studio at a medieval castle that later became the Picasso Museum.

Sculpture work by Picasso. I found myself very drawn to his simplistic representation of faces.

Trekked to the infamous Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes for a super-schmancy lunch. You don’t show up to this celeb-favorite spot without dressing the part (literally, they won’t let you in)… So we donned our finest summer attire and threw on some Talisman of course ;) I’m wearing the Alex Amulet Necklace and Linear Studs. Mom wears the Michael Amulet Necklace and Infinite Hoops.

Le Club 55 in Saint-Tropez… onetime play place of Brigitte Bardot, Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin. Located on what was by far the best beach of the whole trip… those stunning turquoise waters refreshed my soul.

Fresh squeezed juices at Le Club 55 in Saint-Tropez, and the Wave Theory Ring.

Onwards to Nice, where I got to see works by one of my all-time favorite artists, Niki de Saint Phalle, at the MAMEC (Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain). This is an early example of one of her “Nanas,” which later became much more stylized with smooth, rounded bodies. Niki’s early feminism and depiction of women, particularly in such a patriarchal area of the world, is something I greatly admire.

Another work by Niki de Saint Phalle. This shirt belonged to a former lover. Wouldn’t want to be that guy ;)

Works by Yves Klein in my favorite blue at the MAMEC in Nice.

All smiles on this trip. I’m wearing the Held Necklace and the Flow Chain, along with the Aphrodite Hugs and the Linear Studs.

The gorgeous medieval village of Saint Paul de Vence. Yet another place where artists thrive to this day.

A contemporary sculpture of cast bronze and natural elements, found at a gallery in Saint Paul de Vence. Artist unknown but I certainly jived with it.

Small swath of the immense gardens of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. The Villa was built by Beatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild when, at age 40, she found herself divorced and longing for a dreamy place to call home. I can relate.

More gardens, this time of the “exotic” variety atop the medieval Eze village. I truly can’t get this enchanting place out of my head.

Spirals abounded on this trip… seen here in some ironwork on a doorway in ancient Eze.

Sailboats in the port of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Nautical themes were all around in these sleepy fishing towns, and I most certainly soaked it up (pun intended ha). Though I didn’t get a picture, I found myself very attracted to the anchor chain I saw connected to boats in the dock… More to come there.

Janet stands for a photo as we head back to our AirBnB in Villefranche-sur-Mer.

I’m one lucky chica to have been able to visit such an incredible place. If one word could encapsulate this trip, it would have to be “stunning.” Need I say more?

Talisman at the Found Collective Boulder

Join me and a host of other noteworthy Colorado designers, artists, makers, florists, and vintage vendors for the Mother’s Day weekend installment of the Found Collective - a Boulder-based pop-up market that is not to be missed. Happening on Saturday, May 13 from 1-6pm at the Rembrandt Yard: 1301 Spruce Street.

Truly, I don’t participate in many group markets these days (TBH most of them are kind of “meh” if I’m being totally real with you), but this one is worth your time and the small $5 entry fee. Found Collective founder, Emmy Swenson, has impeccable taste and really curates the best of the best. Plus, if you haven’t thought about what you’re getting mom this year, the Found Collective is a one-stop-shop, with florals, tasteful gifts and more. Even better is that all sales will be matched and donated to three charities - Motherhouse Boulder, the Radical Waves Project, and Love for Lily. And I’ll have a BOATLOAD of new Talisman designs for you to see, which you can take home with you in my signature reusable gift packaging. Get your tix here ahead of time, and I’ll hope to see you there!

On Amulets and Talismans

Model Aleah Hyvonen wears the Michael Amulet Necklace, along with the Ra Signet Ring, Rollo Band, and Portal Bracelet. Photo by Chiara Garland.

I often get asked what on earth an amulet or a talisman is, let alone a sigil, so I figured it was high time I hopped on the blog and talked a little more about the woo-woo side of what I do. Don’t let my abstract, modernist sensibility fool you, Talisman is indeed called Talisman for a reason. I use this collection as a means of bridging my art and spiritual practice, in order to create a means of earning a living. Pretty neat, if you ask me.

In the simplest terms, an amulet is “an ornament or piece of jewelry believed to give protection against evil, danger or disease.” The term amulet or talisman can be used fairly interchangeably, as a talisman is considered “a small, portable object or piece of jewelry thought to possess spiritual or magical powers to protect, heal, or even harm individuals for whom they’re made.” In essence, they’re (usually) good luck charms. To be more specific, though, amulets and talismans are pieces of jewelry that can be imbued with a specific energy or intention by the maker, in order to achieve a specific goal for the wearer. Here is where I come in…

Model Sunshine Fox holds several Talisman pieces, including the Phoenix Amulet Necklace and the Protective Eye Y Necklace. Photo by Kristen Hatgi Sink.

Take for example, the Michael Amulet Necklace: this piece is made to carry the vibration of Archangel Michael, who is a protective guardian against evil for those who believe. Underneath the molten, abstract surface of this medallion, I’ve inscribed a symbol that is widely regarded as a magical sigil invoking Michael. What’s a sigil, you ask? A sigil is a written or drawn symbol that is considered to have magical power - often connected to the energy of a specific deity or spirit, though it also can be intuitively drawn as a symbolic representation of the magic practitioner’s own desired outcome. Whew, that got wordy! Long story short, I use sigil magic in my own spiritual practice, and many of Talisman’s pieces have secret sigils inscribed on them in order to bring you healing, protection, good luck, or other specific positive energies. The Michael Amulet and Phoenix Amulet are among those.

The Protective Eye Y Necklace on Sunshine. Photo by Kristen Hatgi Sink.

The the thing is, with these two pieces as well as the rest of the collection, my magic isn’t always obvious. That’s because I come from a background of melding two somewhat opposite worlds - fashion and spirituality. I’m a bridge person, residing at the threshold to connect people between those worlds. Fashion witch, if you will. With a love of modern art, and a background working in fashion for almost 20 years, though, I’m much more of a minimalist, abstract kind of girl. I want my pieces to be wearable and stand out as art objects, on their own. That’s why the magic behind them may not be so in-your-face to some. But trust me, it’s there.

Close up of the Michael Amulet Necklace and Solomon’s Seal Necklace. Photo by Chiara Garland.

Even for Talisman’s pieces that don’t have specific sigil inscriptions, like the Michael or Phoenix Amulets, or something so obvious as the Solomon’s Seal Necklace (which is a very powerful magical symbol that even predates its use in Judaica), magic and intention is always a part of my process. Before I even sit down at the bench, I begin each day with a meditation and channeling practice, along with some yoga movement and qigong to get my energy flowing. I focus a lot on my hands, and when I work on each piece, they’re usually vibrating with the energy that I am imbuing into the jewelry. Furthermore, when I work on custom pieces, I always have that end user’s needs and energy in mind as I’m working, so as to energetically charge that piece of jewelry with it.

The Yin Yang Necklace. Photo by Kristen Hatgi Sink.

Last but not least, I have an altar in my studio (Yes, I’m that woo guys. Are we really surprised at this point? Probably not LOL). This particular atar, if you care to know, is dedicated to Goddess energy, as embodied by deities such as Aphrodite, Mother Mary, Mary Magdalene, and a few others. That’s because those are some of my personal deities that I work with in my spiritual practice. So I set pieces on the altar for a time before they get shipped out to you, in order to receive some last blessings and cleansing.

Sunshine holds the Mary Pendant on the Metanoia Chain. Photo by Kristen Hatgi Sink.

So hopefully that gives some clarity for any of you who were a little unclear about just what an amulet, talisman or sigil is. And therefore probably not totally sure what I do, beyond making pretty jewelry. But hey, that’s a-ok if that’s all you think I do too ;)

The GRATEFUL Sale

Alright, I admit it, this is becoming an annual thing… As much as I dislike pushing consumerism on people at this time of year (ironic, I know), I also enjoy the opportunity to give back. Community means everything to me, so this year we’re going big…

Take 25% off EVERYTHING on the website, PLUS 10% of your sale will be donated to the Lavender Rights Project, through Tuesday with code GRATEFUL.

In light of the recent violence towards the LGBTQIA+ community here in Colorado, I chose the Lavender Rights Project as the recipient of this year’s GRATEFUL sale donation. They’re doing important work, offering legal and social services for Black and Indigenous gender diverse folx who are disproportionately affected by poverty, housing disparities, and gender-based violence. I am grateful for them <3

Cheers!

BTS: Talisman Fine Jewelry Fall/Winter 2022 Lookbook Shoot

This last weekend, we traveled into the wild with photographer Kristen Hatgi Sink and model Sunshine Fox (yes, that’s her real name, and I’d say it’s fitting) to capture our latest fall creations. Concepting, producing, and creative directing photoshoots is part of the other work I’ve done for decades, and it’s always a joy to flex these muscles for Talisman’s shoots. While I thought I had a pretty clear concept in mind before we left on our voyage, as per usual the universe had some different ideas. And, as per usual, it made all the sense in the world when it came together in the end.

Kristen Hatgi Sink photographs Sunshine Fox.

The short story: Two of fall’s standout new pieces include the Protective Eye Y Necklace, and its miniature little sister. The idea had struck us to photograph these floating in front of Sunshine’s eyes, and Sunshine noted how it reminded her of the way some of Salvador Dali’s jewelry (including an eye piece) was photographed back in the day. Couldn’t agree more. The next morning after our shoot, I woke up to a completely unrelated, random text from my mother, with a photo of Dali’s exact same work. She had just stumbled upon it online, and thought I’d appreciate his aesthetic. She had not, by the way, seen anything from our shoot. Hey, these are the serendipitous things that happen when you own a jewelry line called Talisman! Naturally, I went down a wormhole looking at Dali’s work, and remembered that he had a painting called “La Femme Nue Dans Le Desert,” or “The Naked Woman in the Desert.” Immediately my mind flashed to the moon-like desertscape of our shoot, where indeed, we took some nude shots (tastefully covered though). Clearly, it was a sign.

My other inspirations as of late include the work of artists like Elena Stonaker, Niki de Saint Phalle, fashion designer Carla Fernandez (see previous post), and the culture and modernist architecture of Mexico City. These things played into our shoot as well, in more subtle ways. But the Dali references stood out. Or more like they jumped out, right at us.

So, all of this is to say: I hope you enjoy these behind-the-scenes peeks at our FW 2022 shoot, an unintentionally-intentional homage to La Femme Nue Dans Le Desert.

Sorting through the goods. Photo by Kristen Hatgi Sink.

Sunshine and I captured towards the end of the day. Photo by Kristen Hatgi Sink.

Talisman in the Press: Boulder Lifestyle Magazine

I can’t tell you how delighted I was when I heard that Boulder Lifestyle magazine wanted to profile Talisman Fine Jewelry for their June 2022 print issue… I’m a huge fan of the publication, its creative art direction, and its support of local artisans. Plus it’s always nice to connect with folks from my beloved hometown.

Writer Kailey Beuerlein asked some fun, out-of-the-box questions that you can peep below. I’m always excited to gab about my hippie, weirdo parents and the eclectic, formative upbringing that Boulder provided. You can read the article in its full glory starting on p36 here. Thanks again to Boulder Lifestyle publishers Kate and Andy Manz, writer Kailey Beuerlein, and the rest of the team!

Alternative Wedding Rings: My Thoughts and Top Picks

Model Aleah Hyvonen wears the Rollo Band and Portal Ring on her ring fingers, as well as the Demeter Cigar Band on her pointer. Photo by Chiara Garland.

Let’s be honest, not every woman (or man for that matter) is a diamond person, and it can most definitely be said that not all are seeking that traditional one-carat-diamond-or-larger solitaire engagement look. Not knocking the style - it’s a classic, no doubt. But no one should feel confined to a style defined by mainstream society, should that not fit with who they are as a person. Your love is also unique, and your ring should represent that individuality. Plus, not everyone wants or is able to spend a down payment on a house for their ring.

Aleah wears the Portal Ring and Rollo Band. Photo by Chiara Garland.

I’ve been thrilled over the last few years to design wedding bands, both custom and from the collection, that I feel are at once both very classic and timeless, comfortable, and yet utterly unique and modern. That is Talisman’s look, in a nutshell, after all. It’s such a personal, intimate thing to get to make a ring that someone will wear for a lifetime, and I treat these projects with a lot of special care and honor.

Model Niki Gibson wears the Demeter Cigar Band on her ring finger. I do love this look for a commitment ring <3 Photo by Andrew Vanasse.

Wondering what direction to go, or overwhelmed by all the possibilities? Some of my personal top picks for nontraditional wedding rings from the collection include the Portal Ring, with its comfortably tapered band, and both the Rollo and Petite Rollo Bands - two wonderfully pudgy, donut-like, fully-round bands that work great for both brides and grooms. These are bands that are simple, elegant, yet are certainly statement-making. And, should you want a little sparkle, I’d say that each of these rings, particularly the Rollo and Petite Rollo, also sit really nicely next to a diamond eternity band too. Though for those looking for a one-and-done, packs-a-bold-punch commitment look, going with the Persephone Ring is another great call. I also love the extra wide band and clean lines of the Demeter Cigar Band too. Perfect for the fashion-forward bride.

Model Nyasia Wyani wears the Persephone Ring on her ring finger. Photo by Blake Jackson.

Still unsure? Reach out to me here and we can begin a conversation about designing a custom piece to your liking. I love commissions, and am always happy to make you something one-of-a-kind.

Last-Minute Mother's Day Gift Guide

We’ve all been there… Mother’s Day creeps up on you, and all of a sudden you’re scrambling to find something for your mom/wife/sister/BFF. Never fear, we’ve got you covered! Peep below for my top picks of in-stock items that can ship to you in a matter of days (or available for local, same-day delivery if you’re in the Denver/Boulder area)…

The Portal Ring is an easy, classic and timeless take on a gold domed ring. Mom will love, trust.

One of my latest creations, the Freyja Necklace is ultra-dainty with a 2mm diamond, and perfect for the low-maintenance mom. Worn alone or layered with other necklaces, Freyja can be kept on 24/7 for a little extra sparkle.

Once again, low-maintenance and easy… a pair of Circle Studs are a no-brainer (PSA: order 2 for a matching pair, as they’re sold as singles)

One of my best-selling items, I love the amorphous, organic flow that the Sirius A Ring has. Dainty and affordable, it’s a certain winner as far as gift-giving goes.

A definite classic, the Rose Cut Diamond Necklace on a Paperclip Chain is simple yet unique, and ultra sparkly. Great for layering.

For more, see our full assortment of in-stock and made-to-order items here

Talisman in the Press | Worthwhile Goods

I could not be more thrilled to be featured in the very first iteration of Worthwhile Goods’ series “Good Humans,” up now on WorthwhileGoods.com. Worthwhile Goods is a curated resource for ethically-minded fashion, beauty, wellness and home goods, launched by an old pal of mine, Hannah Armitage. Hannah and I go way back… back to when I owned my boutique Goldyn, before it was even a brick-and-mortar boutique (yeah that’s way way back). Picture 26 or 27-year-old me, working out of a giant open warehouse space, packing up online orders, while Hannah, roughly the same age, photographs her vintage wares on the seamless backdrop we shared. Anyway, I digress.

Fast-forward to today: Hannah has launched several successful companies in the fashion sphere, including her latest, Worthwhile Goods, and I am in my 3rd professional life as a jeweler. She and I sat down and got to talking about all kinds of interesting topics - from beginnings and creative inspiration, to things like business advice for entrepreneurs, morning routines, and wardrobe staples. Fun stuff! You can peep the whole interview here.

Behind the Scenes of the Spring/Summer 2022 Lookbook Shoot

Handmade driftwood mobile by my late Great Aunt Susan <3 - something we were able to incorporate as a prop during our Talisman photoshoot

Journey with us to Phoenix, Arizona, where photographer Andrew Vanasse and myself ventured for a sun-soaked photoshoot of the latest Spring 2022 collection arrivals. While lookbook shoots may seem simple enough, many customers don’t realize just how many hours of concepting, planning and effort go into them (and after the fact as well). This one even involved a cross-country jaunt to the Sonoran desert, but hey, it was February and we weren’t complaining. With major, statement-making new pieces like the Mary Pendant and Metanoia Chain in the mix, we wanted a major shoot to showcase them in. Plus, where else were we going to photograph the new Phoenix Amulet Necklace than in Phoenix itself, right?

Andrew Vanasse uses a square-patterned wooden wall, some old boxes we found, and my family’s ceramic vase as a backdrop for the Plane Earrings and Phoenix Amulet Necklace (coming soon)

The earthy, bohemian vibe of an adobe house in Paradise Valley, on the outskirts of east Phoenix, provided just the right backdrop for the highly sculptural new wares. The scene we laid out had a look akin to an artist’s messy desert studio, and thus we mixed in an assortment of fruits and other (very) random foods for our still life shots - as if our artist had just plucked them off the table for a snack between working on her latest pieces. Fun side note here: I was also able to incorporate some of my family’s heirlooms into the pics too - including some handmade ceramic vessels and a driftwood mobile made by my late Great Aunt Susan. How special is that? Given the handmade nature of my jewelry - the Metanoia Chain alone took nearly 100 hours to make! - it all made sense together.

Snack, anyone? A cool mid-century stucco wall at sunset played backdrop to the Portal Bracelet, Mary Pendant (coming soon), and Demeter Cigar Band

Another fun fact: I oftentimes find during photoshoots that, even with the concept nailed down before hand, themes present themselves on the fly. When that happens it’s best to go with it. That’s definitely what occurred here… Rather unintentionally, fish kept making their way into the photos. Don’t ask me why, but when selecting food for the shoot at the local grocery store, the fishmonger called to me, and once we arrived at the location, we stumbled upon some decorative terra cotta fish that just sort of fit the bill. So we went with it. Fish, after all, are said to symbolize rebirth, the higher self, prosperity, abundance and good luck, among other things. I took it as a good omen. And thus, I present to you: the making of “Pisces’ Studio,” a lookbook shot by Andrew Vanasse in creative collaboration with myself, with hand modeling by (my dear cousin) Alianna Martinez. Stay tuned for the final result, coming to the web soon!

Did we make our hand model Alianna touch the fish? You’ll just have to check back in to find out ;) Pictured here are the Aphrodite Hugs, Plane Earrings, and the new Metanoia Chain (coming soon). Alianna wears the Rollo Band.

XX,

Vanessa

A Wedding Band and More Recent Custom Work

While Talisman Fine Jewelry is mostly known as a seasonless collection of heirloom jewelry, some customers are surprised to learn that a large part of my business actually includes custom jewelry. Hence why I like to occasionally share my latest custom work with you all here.

Most recently, I had the honor or creating a custom 14k white gold men’s wedding band for Nick. Nick liked the subtle wabi-sabi nature of my work, but agreed that keeping the ring low-profile (in a literal sense) would be most comfortable for everyday wear. He also opted for a brushed finish, rather than the bright shine of a mirror polish. The result can be seen below. It is always such an honor to create commitment rings and wedding bands for customers… it’s something they’ll be wearing and cherishing for a lifetime, with so much meaning attached to it. As with all Talisman Fine Jewelry pieces, I imbue each creation with intention while crafting it, and take time to set the finished piece on my altar for blessing. This is especially important for commitment rings, for obvious reasons. So with Nick’s ring completed and a blessing for a happy, long-lasting union bestowed upon it, the ring is ready to ship out before his July nuptials! (Side note: custom jewelry can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks to complete, depending on the piece, so always make sure you’ve allotted enough time when putting in your order, especially if you have a deadline to meet).

Custom 14k white gold wedding band for Nick

Another fun custom project that came across my desk was a request for two pendants to represent a client’s work. Specifically, Alexandra works in the women’s health field as a pelvic care practitioner, and she wanted to be able to wear her pendants daily to honor the important medicine that she performs. Working together on the design, we came up with the concept of the spiral - an ancient symbol found historically across many global cultures - as a representation of the womb and its creation process, and of the life cycle journey, including growth, death and rebirth, and a return always to the Great Mystery.

The spiral, a representation of creation, and the journey of life

The second pendant was a more literal request - a yoni. My version was ever-so-slightly abstracted, but generally pretty anatomically obvious, at Alexandra’s request. Not your typical custom order, but I was thrilled to oblige! Participating in destigmatizing the yoni in particular was something that excited me. Alexandra and I both felt, ‘To he** with people who are freaked out by the organ from which they came into the world!’ For this piece I also added a twisted bail detail, to subtly tie it in with its spiral counterpart. Check out the end result below.

Finished womb spiral and yoni pendants for Alexandra

If you’re looking to get engaged, need a commitment ring, or simply have an idea for a jewelry piece that you’d like to turn into a reality, I encourage you to reach out and start a conversation. The best way to contact me, as always, is email - vanessa@talismanfinejewelry.co

Special thanks to Nick and Maddi, as well as Alexandra, for trusting me with your special creations!

The 2021 Gift Guide

Hard to believe, but the holidays are approaching quickly (cue the Home Alone-esque, hands-on-face scream)…

A quick PSA: Because many Talisman Fine Jewelry pieces are made-to-order (in an effort to create less waste as well as create pieces with custom intention for YOU), we kindly ask that holiday orders on items that are not noted as “in-stock and ready to ship” (written in the product description) be placed by November 15th in order to ensure they’ll arrive in time for Xmas. Not to worry though, if planning ahead isn’t your bag, we’ve also got an assortment of in-stock styles that can ship just in the nick of time too.

Confounded on what to get? We’ve put together this handy-dandy gift guide for all the lovelies in your life, for your assistance…

Our top picks for the high-fashion statement-maker, clockwise from left: The Plane Earrings, Yin Yang Necklace, Sea Glass Necklaces, and Spiral Stud

For the lover of classics, our favorite timeless styles include, clockwise from left: The Demeter Cigar Band, Rollo Band, Central Sun Earrings, Rollo Hoops (paired with the Peace Sign Stud), and Rose Cut Diamond Necklace

For the chic spiritualist, we love these styles, clockwise from left: The Michael Amulet Necklace and Solomon’s Seal Necklace, the Sirius A Ring, Talisman Pouch Necklace, and the Protective Eye Stud

Holiday Pop-Up Shop at Recital Boutique

Hip Denver boutique Recital (you may remember them formerly as Queen City General Store) is hosting a holiday pop-up shop of local makers that’s not to be missed! Join Talisman Fine Jewelry and friends Ida & Moon, Mecla, and Non-Porous Ceramics for this very special event. It’ll be the last chance to catch Talisman in-person before the holiday rush, so please save the date! I’m also told *on the hush, hush DL* that Dad Grass will be giving away CBD joints to shoppers, so be sure to get there early and score your gift with purchase ;)

Where > Recital Boutique - 1362 27th Street, Denver, CO 80205 (in the paved alleyway behind Denver Central Market)

When > Saturday, November 6th, 4-9pm

Who/Why > Recital is a destination for sought-after designer labels like Rachel Comey, Jesse Kamm, Batsheva and more. Owner Olivia Meininger and Manager Coco Correa have an eye for fashion-forward style, and have curated a group of swoon-worthy local makers (if we may say so) for this special holiday pop-up shop. Along with baubles by yours truly, shoppers can peruse the handmade leather handbags, accessories, and botanically-dyed apparel by Ida and Moon, dresses to suit the modern woman by Mecla, and highly-giftable ceramics by Non-Porous Ceramics.