Marigolds have a rich history beginning with the Romans who named the flower the calendula which comes from the Latin for calendar because it seemed as though the flowers bloomed throughout the year. In Mexico, marigolds are places on graves for the Day of the Dead in order to remember the Indians who were killed by Cortez since the flower is believed to have sprung from their blood. Eventually the flower was linked to the virgin Mary and thus given its current name. The woman who wears the marigold is one who deeply reflective and a small burst of life for all she encounters. The marigold is made with a gem quality grade of Mexican opal, emeralds, and gold. The vibrant reds and oranges of the Mexican opal are believed to provide the wearer with energy, determination, stimulation, intensity and motivation. If one is to look closely at the orange glow of the Mexican opal one can see flashes of green within. Emeralds, regardless of whether they are light green or dark, are considered a holy stone. The Holy Grail was once said to have been carved out of an emerald which was a factor in the many quests that were waged to find it. Emerald is also believed to be able to stop hemorrhages as well as counteract poisons. It is although thought to protect the eyes while gold is a strengthener of the heart. The marigold should be worn by a woman who is contemplative and yet still takes the time to have a little fun.

The Box

The marigold box is made of linden wood and is adorned with emeralds, carnelian, and mexican opals all hand sewn on raw silk. The inside of the box is lined with vintage French ribbon that dates back to the turn of the century as well as a cushion of saffron colored raw silk. The Inside of the box is lined with Japanese hand screened paper and velvet leaves.

The Earrings

The earrings are made with clusters of mexican opals all wired onto filigree with a tiny faceted emerald in the center. The posts and the earring backs are both 14k gold.