A Vancouver-based jewelry line has been launched into the spotlight after catching the eye of A-list celebrities like Katie Holmes and Reese Witherspoon.
Pyrrha handcrafted jewelry, founded in 1995 by Kitsilano residents Wade Papin and Danielle Wilmore, is best known for its Talisman Collection, which features 19th century wax seals cast onto necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets.
The sterling silver, gold and bronze pieces depict ancient symbols, animals and shields, all with their own significance.
Papin and Wilmore, who have been married for two years, were first inspired when they came across a box of wax seals.
They decided to create a collection that would stand out amongst mass-produced jewelry, even opting to recreate the cracks in the original wax for authenticity.
"We designed the Talisman collection as a response to all of the generic, meaningless jewelry that is so common in our industry," said the couple via email.
"The symbolism contained in the imagery really resonated with us and it inspired us to design a collection that was both sentimental and fashionable."
The brand's flagship store is in Los Angeles and there are plenty of stars that have become big fans. It is also carried at high-end retailer Fred Segal and has made appearances on several TV shows, including Weeds and House.
Most recently, Katie Holmes donned her protection charm necklace in a Bobbi Brown makeup campaign.
Seeing Pyrrha receive such high-profile endorsements is an ego boost, said the designers. But that's not what's most important to them.
"It means more when we know they have chosen a specific piece because it speaks to them. And when they don't take it off for photo shoots - that's the best compliment they could ever give us."
Pyrrha is available on the North Shore at Blue Ruby in Park Royal Shopping Centre's south mall.
For more information go to www.pyrrha.com.
