I was certainly born into the right family. Ever since I was a little girl, my dad would design a piece of jewelry, especially for me, for my birthday and for Christmas. I couldn’t wait to see what he’d come up with and he couldn’t wait to see my reaction!  I loved wearing every bracelet, ring, and necklace he made. Not only because they made me feel beautiful, but because I felt so loved.

To honor those we love with beauty is hardly a new phenomenon; in fact it’s a ritual that spans cultures and time. The way we acknowledge one another—whether a birth, a marriage, an achievement or any other milestone—has always been with a beautiful gift or ceremony. Beauty honors spirit, meaning, and experience.
 
The gift of jewelry in particular—whether I’m buying it for someone, receiving it, or simply admiring it on someone else—uplifts my spirit. I believe that the simple act of giving or receiving jewelry allows us to honor our own worth and another’s, and express outwardly the beauty we feel within.  I love hearing stories of how jewelry makes people feel, and how their relationships have changed as a result of one little gift. I hope you’ll share yours!

--Sophie Priolo