Story
The Concept
The handmade details on this medallion were inspired by Persian miniatures and antique pieces of jewellery featuring ancient coins of Afghanistan. The motif of the Snow Leopard felt particularly poignant as the mountainous north-east of Afghanistan is one of the few habitats of the elusive leopards, dubbed the “ghosts of the mountains”. On the reverse of the pendant, the word ‘peace’ is hand-carved in Dari. The combination of the rare snow leopard and the expression of peace is a symbol that reminds us to find peace, even in the harshest circumstances.
"This talisman which can be worn on one side or another, is a reminder of the preciousness of the flora and fauna surrounding us, but also, a reminder of how peace is essential to the pursuit of our being, inner spiritual peace, peace within mankind, and peace throughout frontiers. Wearing the talisman is a way of bringing your own wave of peace, helping local artisans in Afghanistan as well as keeping its culture alive." - Alia
The Design
Alia Païenda is an events and fashion photographer, as well as jeweller, and violin player. Alia worked on high-jewellery and fine jewellery collection developments a few years ago alongside with designers for Chaumet, Céline and Burberry. She is committed to share the cultural and spiritual heritage from Afghanistan she received from her father and her family.
Photo by Solenne Jakovsky.
THE PROCESS
The original mould was hand-carved by Alia in Paris. It then made it's journey to Afghanistan where it was re-created by master jewellers in Kabul who created these necklaces in sterling silver and gold plated sterling silver, finishing them with a Panjshir emerald. Every order we are able to make with our partners is critical to sustain their livelihoods at a time when the country is in financial collapse and in the grip of a humanitarian disaster.
