The Brand: Cat Bates is an artist and jewelry-maker based in Biddeford, Maine. Cat has been working on this body of work for the last decade and it continues to evolve organically and magically. Cat says, “I find a distinct beauty in utilitarian objects, and often notice that through use such objects become more beautiful still. I think of a bronze oarlock, its exterior caked with oxide from exposure to salt spray, its interior buffed to a warm luster by the rubbing of a dinghies wooden oars. It excites me to see that the metal has been worn smooth, and to know that if use continues the metal will eventually wear thin, will eventually no longer serve its function; that the use of an object will eventually lead to its end. I design jewelry that will last long enough for use to compound its beauty. If you wear one of my pieces, I hope that you will take pleasure in knowing that you are part of what makes it beautiful.”

Description: The clasp on this piece is based on traditional marine hardware. This type of closure is also referred to as a gangent hook, kissing clip or brummel hook. The waxed strands from which the cords are hand-braided, is Maine-made of strong polyester. To open the clasp, pass the two sides through each other when the slots are lined up precisely perpendicularly. The cord will fade slightly over time and with wear and it will also stretch a bit. 

Details: gray hand braided polyester cord, lost wax cast brass clasp, 3 sizes available: (measurements are end to end including clasp) small - 6 1/2 inches, medium - 7 1/4 inches, large - 8 1/8 inches, made in Maine

A Note From Erika: I don’t like to take my jewelry off. One of my favorite things about Cat’s work is that you can live in it. The more you wear it, the better it gets. This is a great standalone piece that anyone can wear or it also works well with other pieces.