By Jessica Ye (Jessica Yap)
I’m a Leo, so I was always going to have a soft spot for the lion in Pandora’s latest Talisman collection.
But you don’t have to be particularly devoted to astrology to appreciate the jewellery. The new collection takes the twelve zodiac signs and turns them into medallions, rings and charms, with plenty of old-world details thrown into the mix.
Fronting the campaign is model Alex Consani (featured image), alongside Mahi Kabra and Jill Kortleve, with Cass Bird behind the photography and film.
The jewellery has a slightly aged look to it. Rather than appearing perfectly polished and brand new, the pieces have textured surfaces, uneven edges and little details that make them look as though they have been around for years. Sterling silver and 14K gold-plated pieces are combined with synthetic mother-of-pearl, stones and cameos, while small inscriptions appear throughout.
The zodiac medallions take centre stage, with each sign given its own character. Leo, naturally, gets its association with passion, while Capricorn represents loyalty. Charms inspired by earth, water, air and fire add another way to personalise the pieces.
One of my favourites is the rotating sun and moon ring, engraved with Per aspera ad astra, the Latin phrase meaning “through hardships to the stars”.
There are other little details to discover too, including hidden Latin inscriptions that make the jewellery feel less like decoration and more like something with a story attached to it.
And you can build that story yourself.
The collection is designed for layering and stacking, with rings, charms and chains that can be combined in different ways. The adjustable T-bar necklace can also be fitted with pendants, so the combination can change over time.
I may be biased towards the Leo pieces, but then again, isn’t that exactly what zodiac jewellery is supposed to do?
Make you pick your own.
The Pandora Talisman collection is now available in Pandora stores.
