Scarab
Handcrafted original Scarab jewelry. To the ancient Egyptians the scarab was a symbol of the sun, of rebirth, and of […]
Animal Stories
ANIMAL STORIES, ANIMAL TOTEMS
Ancient animal mythology and beliefs in animal spirits suggest the profound roots of our collective effort to come to terms with the world that surrounds us. Although our bonds with nature are no longer built through daily interaction and the struggle for survival, we still sense the continuum, the magic intuited by our ancestors. They may have been primitive, but it is possible that they had a much deeper understanding of their place on this planet then we in modern society will ever know.
Since earliest human existence, people have identified with animal qualities: the survival of the wolf, the grace of the deer, the power of the eagle, and the intelligence of the fox. Ancient cultures believed that through communication with their “animal allies” they could strengthen and improve themselves, and they built personal identities by emulating positive animal qualities. A totem represents a connection between the person and the spirit or essence of an animal.
In contemporary life, animals have worked their way into our lives through legend, myth and symbol, connecting us to our own primal instincts. Through these stories and persistent cultural beliefs we are reminded of our mutual ties with the earth and our interdependence with other life forms. Even if we never truly experience it, we can still sense and be inspired by the mystery of nature.
The Ark Collection reflects our desire to connect with these animal totems and carry with us the qualities they embody. To learn more about each animal’s story and totemic associations, please click on the animal name below. If you are interested in jewelry incorporating a particular animal, please email me at sales@jennerayburn.com
Sea Turtle
Handcrafted original Sea Turtle earrings. The Turtle symbolizes the primal mother and Mother Earth, longevity and one’s hope and wish
Seahorse
Handcrafted original Seahorse jewelry. The seahorse is an intriguing sea creature, symbolizing perseverance and contentment. Poseidon, the Greek God of
Skull
Handcrafted original Skull jewelry. Inspired by Mexican mythology where the skull embodies a timeless message of impermanence. Throughout history and
Snake
Handcrafted original Snake jewelry. One of the oldest and most widespread mythological symbols, snakes or mythological serpents, are associated with
Spider
Handcrafted original Spider jewelry. Inspired by the Greek goddess Arachne, whose remarkable weaving abilities are said to be passed on
Squirrel
Handcrafted original Squirrel jewelry. The Squirrel is often viewed as a playful, social critter but is also acknowledged for its
Starfish
Handcrafted original Starfish jewelry. With arms sprawled in all directions, the starfish is a symbol of divine and infinite love.
Stag
Handcrafted original Stag jewelry. Considered a symbol of strength in various cultures, the Stag is respected for its impressive appearance.
Swan
Handcrafted original Swan jewelry. Swans are often a symbol of love or fidelity because of their long-lasting, apparently monogamous relationships.