Jewellery doesn’t always come in the form of diamonds or gold necklaces. Sometimes, the most treasured pieces are the ones with unusual stories, unexpected designs or sentimental value. We asked six stylish women to tell us about the unconventional jewellery they own and why it means so much to them.
Tobi, 29, I wear 24 waist beads every single day.
I stopped counting at first, but there are 24 strands around my waist. Some were gifts, others mark different seasons of my life. They make me feel feminine and grounded. I don’t wear them for anyone else to see. I wear them because they remind me of myself.
Amina, 32 My favourite ring was carved from coconut shell.
People assume it’s expensive because it’s so different. It’s actually handmade from coconut shell and brass. I bought it at a local craft market while travelling, and I wear it more than any gold ring I own. It starts conversations everywhere.
Kemi, 27, I wear a tiny padlock as an earring.
I lost one half years ago, so now I wear just one padlock on one ear and a simple stud on the other. It wasn’t intentional at first, but it became my signature. I love jewellery that doesn’t have to match perfectly.
Ife, 35, I turned my grandmother’s old watch into a bracelet.
The watch stopped working decades ago, but I couldn’t throw it away. A jeweller removed the clock face and transformed the strap into a bracelet. It still reminds me of her every time I wear it.
Zara, 30, My ear cuff looks like a climbing vine.
I don’t have multiple piercings, but I love the layered-ear look. My vine-shaped ear cuff wraps around my ear without needing another piercing. It’s dramatic enough to make a simple outfit feel interesting.”
Nneka, 28, I wear an anklet with tiny keys instead of charms.
Everyone notices the little keys before they notice anything else I’m wearing. They’re symbolic for me. Every key represents a goal I’ve unlocked in life. It might sound cheesy, but it’s my favourite piece of jewellery.