Fashion trends are constantly changing, but the simple meanings behind a lot of pieces, like the mustard seed necklace, the evil eye bracelets and the Tree of Life, remain timeless and relevant. Trang Pham, the Director and Designer behind Saigon Spring Jewelry (9A, Street 43, D2), shares her unique take on the Tree of Life.
What inspired you to create your own Tree of Life designs?
The Tree of Life is a well-known symbol in many cultures, dating back to ancient times. It represents the connections among universe, inspiration, and growth. Its roots dig deeply into the soil while branches and leaves reach for the sky, symbolizing a fresh start on life, positive energy, good health and a bright future.
Its unique and positive representation inspired me to bring the Tree of Life to my jewelry. In fact, wire-wrapped jewelry with the Tree of Life symbol has been quite popular for sometime, especially among Westerners, however, I wanted to bring a different style and craft them on natural stones. The combination of natural stones and the tree symbol is visually stunning.
What are the stones used to make them?
Most of the stones that I use are natural stones, like Labradorite, Amazonite, Aventurine, Jasper, Amethyst and Tiger’s Eye. Only some, very brightcolored stones like Agate, are dyed. Each stone represents a different meaning. For example, Labradorite is the stone of protection, while Amazonite is the stone of truth and communication, and Tiger’s Eye for positivity. However, I believe that the real power is not in the stone, but is inside each of us to live our lives to the fullest and to make a positive impact on the people and world around us.
Tell us about your new special Christmas designs.
For Christmas, I love to put Christmas colors into my jewelry, so I used lots of red and green stones (Red Jasper and Mint Amazonite). They are very eye-catching when wrapped with copper wires. I am also working on some special Christmas designs with my horn jewelry, although the well-loved natural colors and textures of the horn will still be showcased.
Any plans to expand Tree of Life into rings and bracelets? And can pieces be customized?
Recently I have started using sterling silver wires so that my customers can have more choices with materials, color combinations and price points. I do have plans to make Tree of Life rings and bracelets next year. Yes, we absolutely can customize. Depending on the customer’s budget and requests, we can work closely with them to create the size, color and material combinations that they are looking for.