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: This piece is based on a marine thimble, which would traditionally be spliced into the end of a rope to prevent other hardware from chafing through. The marine-grade nylon cord is dyed in-house and attached to the brass casting by a sturdy stitch. Featuring Cat’s signature sister clasp closure, 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. 

Details: hand dyed marine grade nylon, 22 inches in length

A Note From Erika: A nod to nautical, this piece appeals to those who know what the inspiration is as well as those who just appreciate the shape.