About
About Stone & Ether
I chose the name Stone & Ether to reflect the balance between the tangible and intangible, the connection between earth and spirit. I wanted a way to bring back colour into everyday life and connect back with what the earth provides, I wanted something that you can wear and carry with you as that subtle reminder.
When I stumbled across the ancient Chinese crafts Ronghua (绒花) and Hexiangzhu (合香珠) I knew they were the best way I could express that connection while also bringing more attention to these traditions to keep them alive.
All my designs are inspired by nature, ancient cultures, myth, and stories as there is so much to be found in them and much we can learn. I want them to continue on rather than becoming lost and forgotten by time. Every creation is made with pure intention and respect for them all.
I hope you find connection through my creations whether worn, gifted or displayed while inviting you to slow down and reconnect.
About
Ronghua (绒花)
Ronghua dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907 CE) worn first by royalty symbolizing wealth and glory. During the reign of Emperor Qianlong, Empress Fucha preferred wearing these silk flowers over ostentatious jewels. Ronghua later expanded and become popular amongst the general public. While the craft almost got wipped out, in 2006-2007 the Nanjing and Yanghou Ronghua techniques received Provincial Intangible Cultural Heritage designation which led to its revival. Ronghua is still worn to this day for special occasions and everyday wear, both in China and overseas.
About
Hexiangzhu (合香珠)
Hexiangzhu dates back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE) and emerging more during the Tang and Song Dynasties. Artisans carefully combined ingredients, many through trade from the Silk Road, ground them, then turned them into beads. These beads were historically worn on garments, carried in sleeves or held within the hands.
Standard perfume incense uses alcohol or oils to disperse scent while others must be burned to release the scent. Hexiangzhu release fragrance with the subtle warming of the skin, giving off a much more gently and subtle scent. These beads are meant to give off this soft aroma helping ground and calm the mind, a reminder to pause, breathe and reconnect.
Today, Hexiangzhu has been recognized as part of China's Intangible Cultural Heritage.