Centuries ago, keepsake jewellery began as something called "Mourning" or "Momento Mori" jewellery. Pieces made from precious metal encompassed deceased loved ones' hair and teeth. Rings and pendants intricately etched with sentimental words, enamelled names and significant gemstones to commemorate the lives of loved ones lost. Mourning jewellery dates back to at least the 14th century and many pieces of this type of jewellery were in fact bequeathed by the deceased, with a specific list of recipients named, specially selected before goodbyes were said. A way of saying "don't forget me when I have gone".
Today, this type of jewellery has become keepsake jewellery. The definition a little more fluid in the sense that it isn't just to signify a loss, but a life.
Keepsake jewellery is a psychological anchor. It helps us navigate the ache of absence be it due to distance, separation or death. Jewellery can create a tangible presence. In moments of quiet reflection, you may find yourself stroking a pendant during a walk, or rubbing your own finger prints across the face of your dog nose print ring. The piece becomes a portal. Allowing yourself moments to reflect and feel close once again, and this is why we create this jewellery for our fellow dog lovers. Keeping the connection to your dog in all the ways.
Through the lens of loss, psychologically, these mementos aid the grieving process by providing continuity. From many personal accounts our customers have kindly shared with us, we know that our jewellery serves as sort of emotional stabiliser. Gentle reminders that love endures and the love of a dog, and for a dog is never just for a moment in time. It is forever.
In saying this, above all else, we make our dog nose print jewellery to celebrate. To forever signify the specialness of your connection with your best friend. 70% of our pieces are made to be worn while the dog who has had their nose printed is still walking beside the wearer. This is where we believe we are redefining the meaning of keepsake. It's not just in loss, but in life. The fact that it serves more than one purpose and can signify multiple stages of living, loving and losing just speaks to how jewellery and it's meaning transcends and shifts as time moves forward. It is a mirror which is capable of seeing the past and present. It is a token of the one of a kind bond you share that is carried forward for the rest of your days.
