MATSU

Nymph on the Nile

 

 
Nymph.. Mythological divinity: 1390  "class of semi~divine female beings" conceived as beautiful maidens inhabiting the sea, rivers, trees, mountains and meadows. A beautiful young woman chiefly poetic or playful.
 

I tell this to you again, as I did in my first post introducing my new creation and line of jewelry; Nymph. The first post was in early September. Now, nearly 2 months later, I am sharing with you the evolution of this extension of my creative being. I call the line Nymph just because it felt right. I personally relate to the meaning  and definition of the word. I can see these little maidens scurrying around, and relaxing very naturally in their habitat.

As for the Nile... On my last creating marathon down south, as I was creating and inventing the styles, designs and combinations of stones, I kept getting ;the word down loaded from above " my guardian angels" ? The feeling of Egypt kept coming up. I couldn't help but really pay attention to this. It was a very strong message. It kept coming.  The feeling of the components that I was combining just got more and more ethnic in this direction. 

The Nile is a major north~flowing river in Africa, generally regarded as the longest river in the world. The northern section of the river flows almost entirely through desert. from Sudan into Egypt, a country whose civilization has depended on the river since ancient times. Most of the population of Egypt and all of its cities, with the exception of those near the coast, lie along those parts of the Nile valley north of Aswan; and nearly all the cultural and historical sites of Ancient Egypt are found along the banks of the river. The Nile ends in a large delta that empties into the Mediterranean Sea.

The Etruscans were a tribe from Egypt that settled in Northern Italy. My ancestry. Hence, the innate feeling and the intuition that has guided me to using these stones in this manner and to apply them for adornment to the body. ie Jewelry. This was how I conjured up the title for The Second Edition of Nymph. Nymph on the the Nile.

The collection for the most part is presented as a limited edition. Many of the beads are no longer available giving it an exclusive feeling from the start. The limited availability creates a mystery and sense of strong desire to me. The beads are mined from far off lands, and that is the feeling that I have as I touch them all. My eyes actually see what I am feeling, and this connection guides my hands into what was created, how and why. The unique combinations using these beads, K gold nougats, diamonds, carved jade, olive wood, onyx, antique sterling filigree beads,. These materials pretty much describe the components of all of my bracelets, ranging from $65 ~ $145. The selection at this time since the production has just been completed, is rather vast, but as fore mentioned limited. This creates a sense of mystery, and desire to me.

The necklaces are made with Semi precious stones all with different healing qualities. Smoky Topaz, Citrines, Amethyst, Black Spinel, Whiskey Quartz, Black raw diamonds and  Moss Aquamarine. I have added a  diamond focal bead on many pieces all varying in size and shape.  I have  also juxtaposition ed these precious pyramid diamonds with wood, a very unexpected yet warm and rich combination. I have layered the tones just as in clothing. I have created a pallet that spoke to my soul, with all of you in mind. My desire is for you to wear it as it becomes a part of your own soul, and just part of you. The different tones will resonate with people all differently making it a personal creation that is adapted by you for you alone. 

I was blessed with the opportunity to work with a very talented and up and coming photographer. Her name is Ginger Devegh. She executed my vision  with such ease, and the most thrilling results were her use of natural light. No studio set ups., no back lights and reflectors. The whole experience was organic and natural. I highly recommend her and if you need a photographer for any reason, please call Matsu or visit her website: Gingerdeveghphotography.com.

As you can see, I have inserted images of my work. There are piles of stones, wood, carved jade, natural dyed olive woods, the list goes on, but the feeling is that of having been dug out from a tomb. Out of the dirt, out of the deep digs of the river banks of the Nile.  At least that is my image.

I hope you can feel this when seeing, touching and wearing my pieces. All made with passion, love and desire.  See you soon !

Yours in Joy and Spirit, Dava

From France to Florida

Traveling amazes me. You never know what you will learn, experience or find. The sense of adventure is always a surprise. I like that. Traveling with your mind wide open enables this to happen.

 
I have just returned from Paris, buying scouting and searching for new trends, classics and staples such as music and wine. This was for the Spring 2010 fashion and accessory market.

My photos will explain some of my experiences and discoveries. I invite you to take a virtual stroll through my weekend in Paris ! I am thrilled to share this with all of you. It gives you some secret insights into what stimulates me and the origin of my frolic-ky mindset . Play. I sometimes don't know when to stop. Not a bad place to be when I think about how I allow myself this mental emotional and soulful freedom ! Think of the alternative. Being locked up inside.  NO !  Never ! 

I am between one trip and nearly ready for the next, being tomorrow. I am flying to Sarasota with my bags overstuffed with all sorts of finds such as stones, diamonds, wood and relics. These components are what will become the next edition of my jewelry line Nymph. Stay tuned folks. You will be seeing the next series of photos, and the jewelry will be available  by the weekend of October 16 Th. There will be a party kick off preview showing at Boldfacers studio at Fort Point Channel !  Check their website for details.

I am altering my blog releases beginning this week. I will send out a tiny e mail blast announcing each release. I hope you enjoy reading  and receiving the news. This is a new strategy. I was asked to send an awareness e mail out to drive people to the blog since they would never know otherwise what is happening.
Many have asked me why I am no longer at Matsu full time, and anyone in business knows what kind of effort and energy, not to mention stamina it takes to run a business and keep it fresh all the time. My wonderful staff supports me, and this has given me an opportunity to generate other delightful things and projects, such as Nymph, for you. I am grateful to everyone supporting me in this.I hope you enjoy these photos. Stay tuned for what's next. Yours in joy and spirit, Dava

Celebrate fashion night with Nirva; on the evening prior to my Paris departure.

Oh how lucky I am. Here it is, the midst of Boston's Fashion Week... We celebrate fashion. I think this week should be extended for the year!  Maybe this way all women would dare to dress for fun, and for the heck of expressing their inner inhibitions. Sort of why Halloween is so popular. We all can "act out " by dressing up as we normally would not. I am all for self expression, and provoking what is within. I have said this many times before. 

Tonight, Nirva celebrated this in an array of gorgeous fabrics, textures colors, draping, and wonderful embellishments in the hair, belts and applied directly on the clothing, in some cases.

The venue; Mizu was provocative backdrop for the 28 different looks that Nirva portrayed as her Spring 2010 looks. Absolutely divine. The Music, the lighting, the models and the crowd. All well received. I was so proud of her, and very happy to have been a part of this audience. It took me completely out of the notion that Boston has, generally of being staunchly fashion wise.  Not true!  Nirva proved this tonight, and I would like to think that I do the same daily at Matsu.  Don't be afraid to visit us ! It is so good for your mind, heart, body and soul .

This fashion show came at a time while I am preparing to leave for Paris. I am so glad that I had the break tonight to see such wonderful sights. Internally, I have been prepping for this trip. Busy closing loose ends, you know making sure my passport is in check.. Automobile registration renewal, etc. You know, all that mundane stuff that Virgos are good at organizing.

What is it about Autumn that inspires us to do so many things in our life that  can make room for more? With the abundance that comes with this season, cooking becomes a heart warmed project leading us into the indoors, and nurturing our lives in ways that the summer doesn't.  Roasted squash, mushrooms,  pumpkin pies,  artichokes. This season's produce is so inspiring. We have shortened days with less light, bringing the opportunity to burn more candles and set a theme, mood and ambiance within our own environments. I just love this season. Maybe it's because this is my birth season. Who knows? 

As I prepare for leaving for Paris, I sit with gratitude for everything that my life has provided, along with the all the people who have touched my heart in it. Prior to leaving on this flight I always reflect, sit quietly and thank everyone that makes life so rich, and those who inspire me. This in turn, provides a foundation for me to do the same .

I leave you all knowing how perfect we all are just as we are, and hope that you read my blog entries. You silently do excite me to write. I know it's not grammatically correct all the time, but if I can relay my feelings and thoughts to you through this, then I feel golden and I have accomplished something very endearing.

See you when I return . Fully more enriched, I assume. I will approach this trip with both retail knowledge and artisan naivety.. how innocent. What a way to breathe and to receive what comes next.

 

Until then,

I remain yours in joy

Dava

Enjoying the abundance of Autumn

Summer is winding down. As a matter of fact, yesterday was the last day of summer. Indian summer is here. The hustle and bustle of the sound of the traffic, the New York City lights, and the wonderful energy swirling around both night and day. The dark skies of September sprinkled with stars gleaming over the vast space above. Bigger than me. It makes me feel so alive.

This trip to New York is triple fold.  My "baby" now lives here, so coming to New York has taken on a new meaning. Another dimension. This trip's purpose also is a buying trip. The Coterie is here, scouting, and seeking new designs for Spring 2010. Inspired by all of the colors for spring.  Everyone seems to be celebrating the darkness the economy has set upon us. The overall feeling of dread has spread through out psyche like a disease and it HAS to stop! Yea, that's it! Color will definately help. Why not start now ???

Announcement: The arrival and birth of Nymph; my new jewelry creation.

nymph; - noun one of a numerous class of lesser deities of mythology, conceived of as beautiful maidens inhabiting the sea, rivers, woods, trees, mountains, meadows etc.

Hence, the word chosen for the collection of jewelry I have designed and created. 

 

Not without technical and otherwise, assistance and guidance from my adorable sister, however;  thank god for Celeste.The formal announcement goes something like this:

Boston- Matsu owner Dava Muramatsu announces the debut of her new line of jewelry, Nymph.

Specially designed by Dava (that's me. ) Nymph is a tribal inspired collection  of necklaces, bracelets and earrings made from precious and semi-precious stones, vintage gold, silver, beads and relics. The Nymph collection evokes sacred ethnic pieces worn to adorn, protect and invoke sensual and spiritual elements.

The stones in the collection are from tones of the earth: emeralds, pearls, and diamonds both raw and refined, along with labradorite, Afghan black, deep green and emerald jade, spinel, smokey topaz, , 18k gold nuggets accenting muted tones of heishi carved beads.. Each stone, bead and relic has a sensuality to it. some are hand carved, some rough hewn or raw.  I have combined these beads, and stones, most of which are very subtle in appearance  to the naked eye, into what I would love to think as being visually compelling into strikingly sophisticated designs that I feel to be romantic, organic and sexy. Not to mention a bit eccentric.

 

I created Nymph out of a desire to express feelings through jewelry that were unavailable. I scouted, searched and found vintage metals, stones, and findings from sources from Japan, Europe, Afghanistan, and India. Each piece is unique and one of a kind created by my instincts, my intuition and my inner soul. I find this collection to be contemporary with history. Ancient with a slight fresh provocativeness.

The Nymph collection will be available  at Matsu the week of September 10th. 2009.  I look forward to your visit to view this collection and all the rest of our new arrivals for Autumn.

Yours in joy,

Dava Muramatsu

 

Discover the rapture. Preview what's coming this season to Matsu!

It began with 5 long 9 hour days. As our summer weather finally settles in, I wind up indoors for these 5 days at a trade show.. Not without excitement however. I roam amidst the bountiful isles of new and up coming designers exhibiting their wares some for the first time, some who have been at it for a longer time. I am referring to the New York Gift Show. Within the vast exhibition are different categories. Accent on Design, Handmade, Extracts. Something for every sense. I was in heaven.

New York City's energy was high. It usually is. I fed on it. I thrive on it. I can't wait to get down there always, and very happy to be back in a slightly more relaxed environment once back in Boston. I use this dichotomy as an asset. It creates a balance with in.

I never go to any market with a concept in mind, I just always pray to have the faith that I'll be guided towards new and emerging ideas for Matsu and for my life as well as yours.

I promised a photo of Lena Skadegard in my last entry, and having had dinner with her last Friday night, after sifting through her collections of stones once more, I share a snap shot of the 2 of us enjoying dinner and learning about each other's rather unusual lives.

It is always a treat for me to learn what makes a designer tick. I believe it is important knowledge to have, in order to sell merchandise and share the history behind the work. Be it a jewelry, a glass blower, a leather artisan, and as unusual as this one is, a man that designs lead sculptures that are used for drawing.

I was also thrilled to find a new line of candles. One can never have too many, and as the days close earlier and darkness sets in to create the lighting in an environment towards dusk, lighting one of the little gems brings me such contentedness. These candles are hand made, and I found very very unique. Setting the mood for dining, relaxing or just to create an atmosphere filled with sensuality, I found 7 new scents portrayed in 2 separate styles. One collection of scents focuses on the winter and the holiday season, but burnable year round, as they depict the smells of nature such as pine, and berries. The other a bit more ornate and gorgeous, trigger the imagination with a more complex scent palette, that of Paris. The etching on the glass votive's exterior is obvious in describing that old Parisian feeling. Cant wait to burn all of them.

I met a glass blower in her booth that resides and works in Rhode Island. The vases and glass ware I chose spoke to me as little jewels for table tops, flower containers and the the ultra light glassware in these bright tones are unlike anything I have ever had in the shop before. I love that ! Her name is Laura Kramer. I found the work very balanced. A wonderful addition to your home, office or any other room in  life.

As I meandered down the isle, I found my self standing for what felt to be a very long time in a booth that I had a hard time determining why it was so comfortable. I was surrounded by leather. A natural material that has been transformed into the most magnificent journals, coasters, wine log books, and handsome wrist bands. This gentleman, who's name slips my mind this moment is from Utah. The collection he creates out of leather is unique in that the price points are so reasonable ,affordable and it is all created here in the United States. What a pleasant bonus ! Not only to seek and find, but to support artisans from this country.

Last for this entry I share with you this artisan who creates the most unusual writing instruments made from lead. I suppose I could say I ordered pencils for the shop and for all of you, but that would be an understatement. These fine pieces are sculptures for the desk top. You will be handling the head of a bird, or perhaps an olive branch. A Shell..  all of these pieces a vision. A vision with another purpose. I am showing a sampling, and a photograph of the designer.

 

I am thrilled to have this opportunity to share my New York market experience with you as a prelude of what's to come ! Stay tuned. This is a very exciting time.

I look forward to merchandising these wares to tantalize ,tease and bewitch you all and your friends. The art of seduction. 

As Matsu gears up for this season, I will share my experiences in searching, discovering and relinquishing  the art of it all.

Yours in spirit,

D a v a

Escaping close and feeling far; with nature as inspiration

Waking up one day only to realize, anything is possible. thinking outside the box. What does that really look like ? ANYTHING you want !  The beauty of re~inventing your life circumstances, motives and benefits. Sounds abstract, right?  But if you separate your thoughts and ONLY deal with them one by one, you will find it amazing how the small amount of energy to think differently you wonder, why not ???

  

Getting away from daily life helps this happen. My trip to Maine recently reminded me of how wonderful breathing in the ocean air is. Just to have the ability to view a different scene, landscape and terrain.

The Cliffs of Maine are breathtaking. The rocky imperfections so natural, and the vast view of ocean and sky just induces a dream state. Fun and frolic in the water, the sun and the sand was pretty much how I described the time I had up there. 

By the return trip home, a day later, I was absolutely ready for my life to unfold in the state I left. The comfort of it, and the ability to mold the time to fit any inner desire was so welcoming. Even with this brief time away, I felt how good this tiny escape was.  Upon returning, also, I realized how one doesn't always need the grandiose escape we think we need in order to attain the sense of internal freedom, and the  inner vacation we thought we needed to begin with! I discover that while away, anywhere, I mentally free myself to experience nature in it's state of being. I breathe through the vision with clarity. I bask in the message while turning nature back into my life. This influences my thoughts, and actions while inspiring the merchandise choices at Matsu. The collections of clothing, bags, jewelry, scarves etc. portrayed in the boutique are for those the who come in seeking. The results can be soulfully rewarding. Those that enter will definitely endure either a museum like experience or a more personal one depending on which or all of your 5 senses are triggered at the time.

In conjunction with my Maine trip, I have culminated the idea and recalled my last trip to New York city.I worked with Lena Skadegard's jewelry, actually feeling and touching the messages they brought to my eyes and soul, it was obvious to me then that Lena, too is moved by the spirit of nature. I am titillated by her stones and the stories she shares with me about them. I will also share these with you as well as a photo of her after this weekend. I will interview her at that time and learn what else drives her inspiration. I do know that her piecesedoke the Divine Feminine. This is innate.Not something you can practice. You be it. The Rudraksh Rosary pictured here is one of the last available ever. They are rare beads. The necklace is a limited edition piece. There is a 22k vintage fruit pendant hanging from the bottom center with a small ruby set in the fruit.The Rudkrash berries have tremendous significance when worn and are intended to sanctify and unify the mind, spirit and body, impart compassion and protect. The seeds are used for meditation. The seeds and the guru bead come from the Himalayan foothills.

I hope you enjoyed reading about this magnificent piece that is even more than a necklace with it's hidden mystery. Worn with jeans, a t shirt, or to adorn an all black outfit adding visual texture not to mention the wonderful spirit hidden within.

I will be featuring my life experiences as I have been doing, and introducing a designer as well beginning with the next blog. I am speaking about Lena here, but with out her photo, it seems to lack a bit. I find it important to have a face associated with the work. I am thrilled and honored to be able to meet her this Friday evening, at which time she will walk me through her collection. Although I have been selling her work at Matsu for a while, I didn't have the background information which I want, and hope you do too!

See you soon.  I will share my New York trip upon my return!

Yours in Joy,

Dava Muramatsu

Labradorite; Spiritual healing & Physical appeal

I just returned from New York City. I doubled the purpose of my trip to pick up Aya from completion of her 3 week dance intensive at Steps, located on Broadway on the upper West Side.

I was invited to revisit the collections of Lena Skadegard. I discovered this designer a couple years ago. This adventure widened my imagination and fantasy of digging jewels, stones, beads up out of the dirt, the ground or a tomb. The feeling I had  still remains. As what I think it would be like visiting Egypt or India and foraging through the tombs. Kind of like discovering gold.

WIthin the week, I will be exhibiting her jewelry at Matsu. Many styles of necklaces using no hardware. The stones are the focus, and the style of creating her necklaces is very organic. Her earrings, however are the most brilliant of colors and are set in 18k gold. I have chosen to name a few for the sake of a tease ; Chrisicolla ( looks like Turquoise), Peruvian Opal; a milky sea foam tone, and faceted Green Garnet.

In this entry, however I wish to share the discovered qualities of Labradorite.

Physical Qualities:     Labradorite is a gray feldspar mineral with occasional brilliant flashes of color that are suggestive of the Aurora Borealis. The flashes tend to be blue, green and yellowish. These colors can be seen when the stone is tipped or moved  to catch the correct angle in the light.

History:  Labradorite was first discovered by Moravian Missionaries in 1770. The stone was said to originally be found in Finland, but Canada now remains the center for production of quality labordorite gem stones.

Effects: Labradorite is said to reduce anxiety, depression and feelings of hopelessness. It cleanses the psyche of negative thoughts and emotions. The primary attribute generally given to Labradorite is it's ability to calm, center and ground the person wearing or holding the stone. It is a natural shield against negativity from people or circumstances, acting as a protection from these unnecessary emotional obstacles. Labradorite also allows the individual to displace anxiety-producing thinking with pragmatic and reasoned cognition.

Results: The calming effect of this stone allows the individual to retain control and not be drawn into into reactionary or inappropriate responses.

Design: Sharing this information gives the stone a foundation generally not known when shopping, or choosing a piece of jewelry. The energy portrayed as a result of the healing qualities is indeed a trait I consider when choosing for the collections at Matsu. The untrained mind and eye would not naturally know the fact shared above. I am increasing the depth of retain, so to speak in delivering this message.

What is amazing to me is the broad appeal of the stone to nearly everyone, despite the color of their skin, or the color of the clothing.  The following colors compliment the stone, and vice versa. Black, aubergine, charcoal, deep espresso, midnight blue, olive, pinks.  The list is vast, but I can not forge to mention the reds;the color of passion;.  The varying colors in the stone can look warm and cool with the overcasting gray tones.

Photo: The necklace here was designed by Lena Skadegard who has enhanced these rich, calming stones with 3 large18k gold beads from India, adding an elegant twist to this otherwise powerful straight forward necklace. Available in 2 longer lengths measuring  approx. 28" ~33" for a beautiful layering effect.

Ilook forward to merchandising these new pieces in the shop this week, and sharing with you how a simple piece can dazzle your mind, body and heart.

Enjoy the summer. I can feel the change in the air, position of the sun, and the shorter days. Autumn offerings in abundance. But let's enjoy the moment in the remaining month of Summer.

See you soon !

Spiritually yours,

Dava Muramatsu

Obscure from Earth; Delight in Vintage

Mushrooms. Down to earth. Let's face it.  Where do they come from ? Really !  Walk into Whole Foods and the varieties available right there, obviously displayed. Labels, signs; thank God. ! 

The nature of this little beast has a following that is black or white. Nothing in between. The pole taken is that they are either despised by or intoxicated by the 'shroom lovers.

Mushroom Wednesday at L'Espalier.  July 15th. Guest;  Benjamin  Maleson.The Mushroom Man. Provisionary for upscale restaurants. Forager extraordinaire.  Forager:  to scout about, seek, rummage; hunt. The act which easily describes the lifestyle of this fine bearded, long haired gentleman who appears to have just crawled out of a forest canopy, and most likely did ! 

Beyond my wildest imagination, I had no idea that the level of expertise existed. Oh, I know it does somewhere, but who knew, this native of Jamaica Plain and his wife reside nearby.  As a guest last evening, I experienced one of the most miraculous meals ever. Each time I go to L'Espalier I have no expectations, and they are not needed. The surprise and the actual experience is so enriching and rather mind altering.

 The menu last evening consisted of a Terrine of russulas and pickled chanterelles with farm young greens drizzled with a chili-lavender vinaigrette. Taste bud opening for the first course. Second course; Halibut and black trumpet mushroom "hot dog". Scrumptious. Third course (all paired with specific wines naturally... paired to enhance each course ), Waffle cap mushroom stuffed pork loin with confit potatoes and pattypan squash.  Delicious. and for the finale, the desert was the most unusual in my opinion. It consisted of sauteed Enoki mushrooms with black truffle chev re mousse and vanilla ice cream.   I have to said it was rather odd and I had difficulty allowing the Enoki mushroom texture to touch my tongue for some reason. Uniquely odd. Paired with ice cream just a bit weird.

I found the evening to be very educational, and tasty all in one. I really enjoyed hearing what Ben had to share, as this realm was a bit foreign to me. He brought baskets filled with a cornocopia of his mushrooms finds for us to touch, feel and smell. These were his treasures, and being that he supplies many restaurants in the area with these delicate little creatures, he is reknown in his field.

This was an intimate turn out and the seating was appropriately placed in the "library room" of L'Espalier. I urge you to dine here if you haven't already. It is truly an experience. We love those !

As mentioned before, the definition foraging is to search about. Seek, rummage. I just realized this is what is done when attending the Brimfield Antique Show. It is held 3 times a year, and yes I am repeating my trip which I original took in May.  However, this time around, I went with absolutely no expectations. None. Positive grounds for adventure.  Scouting through the fields of old stuff.  Some junk, as well as definite treasures.The marvelous thing in life has been to discover and apply beautiful things as a way to integrate them with my existing life, and also to enhance yours. This blog entry is about merging the old with the new, and the paralelle that foraging holds, be it with food, fashion, home accessories or jewlery. For me, the talent to edit all of this and not become overwhelmed despite the quantity there is to choose from is truly a gift. I love creating the platform in which to share all of this with you, and hope you enjoy reading and absorbing the process, and outcome as well.

My favorite thing this time was .... vintage ribbon.  Crazy ! I know. but the ribbons are simply beautiful. They are aged. The dyes back then were very natural, yet vivid in colors. New packaging for presents at Matsu ! That's what. I am including a photo here, along with some of the other treasures I discovered this trip. I especially love the "Jade Ware". The photo of the green dinnerware. The impact is beyond spectacular. Old cans, the eggplant old automobile.  Spotless. Impeccable. I invite you to take a visual ride through my photos here. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoy sharing them with you.

 

 

So, the next time you are out and about, you can find beauty in anything, bring it back into your home or life. It could be a smell, a piece of jewelry, article of clothing, who knows, but I do know that by you reading this blog and my entries, I am inspired to share my personal experiences with you.

I look forward to feedback if you have any, and for YOU to share as well.

Happy Hunting

Yours in Joy,

Dava

Emeralds, Diamonds, Rubies and Pearls

Once upon a time when I was a little girl, ( in age ) I still am .. It is all about the inner spirit you bring to your body.  I felt that The Wizard of Oz was the most fantastical sight . The scene with the intoxicating field of poppies and how the magnitude affected my visual pleasure. That wasn't enough, no then came the Emerald City. An absolute fantasy as a child. Many of you who know me may characterize my spirit to be filled with fun and frolic. Others may know how much I am affected by color.  We all are, some aware of it and others may not be.  This is something one should be conscious of when buying a relic of any kind for yourself, or loved ones.

This entry is about fashion, wearable stones and the fad that they are in right now. Naturally fads and trends come and go, and with my business, and career at Matsu I strive for the best for my clientele. I aim for fun, fashion, sensuality but with materials, stones, fabrics and styles that have the least amount of trend possible. Let me explain.  Being aware always of pop culture, be it through music, clothing, home accessories or jewelry, I honestly can say that in the mix, and during any of my buying sprees, I tend to discriminate against trends. Why ? because often times they become watered down so fast and trickle into the market and cheapen as it goes down the line. I seek integrity and high quality craftsmanship in everything portrayed through Matsu. I prefer staying power. I prefer non trends. I prefer the customer to get a lot of mileage out the investments made. Why ? Sophistication, and confidence is what breeds within as a result.

I will not buy nor sell a knock off. This mantra is just who I am personally, and also for the level of integrity we opt to maintain through Matsu. Many of you may be caught up in the whirlwind of the beaded bracelet phenomena right now.  Great ! They are easy, and fun to pair with existing jewels. Just remember, if you know the quality there exists, and the healing traits of any stones you may purchase, you have a bonus. Staying power, if you will; not to mention something timeless. That is the point.

I am in the process of gathering all the new collections for this up coming season, and at the moment I am focused on the adorning the body department; ie Jewels. The collections arriving are probably more intense than ever before. I thrive on this, and know the results will benefit us all. I have revisited some of the real true jewelry designers of the past.  Back when Design meant just that. This is important to me. The looks of Beth Orduna, Lisa Jenks and Roseanne Pugliese.  These gals are on top of their game. Lisa, who diverted her life several years ago, disappeared on the scene to raise her family, yet was still designing for large companies. She is back, with a new collection which will be introduced exclusively at Matsu withing the next month.  I am pleased, proud and flattered by these designers choosing Matsu as their platform to portray their goods. All of the designers that we house in Matsu are exclusive to Boston. There may be a trickle overlap here or there, but not for the most part.

I am working on a collection of jewelry which reflects the title of this blog entry. As much as I thrive on color, when it comes to jewelry, I feel less is more. Here is a brief description as found in the Vedic Astrological Tradition. There are certain remedial agents that act to protect the body and mind. For thousands of years mankind has known that certain gemstones can have a positive effect on the body and mind by nullifying or mitigating the harmful influences of the stars.

Research in current publications ascribe many healing properties to gemstones.These qualities have been found to be effective not only  for physical, mental or spiritual relief, but also as an aid in one's pursuits in life.

Diamonds: As seen here in Victorian settings.  Origin: India. The Diamond is considered the greatest of stones, revered throughout the ages for its great beauty and strength, and also for its powerful positive spiritual and physical influences. The diamond is said to enhance the wearer with charm and beauty. Physically it strengthens the kidneys and reproductive organs and also offers protection with severe disease. The ancient Romans believed that the diamond ,when worn on the left arm would give the wearer bravery. During the Middle Ages Queen Elizabeth I was given a diamond to ward off the plague. The diamond is the birthstone for April.

Rubies: One of the most precious gemstones; the ruby can easily be the equal to a diamond in value. In India and China the ruby is worn to promote health and happiness. A power ascribed to the ruby both in the Orient and Europe was the ability to foretell danger by a loss of color and brilliance.  The Ruby is used in astrology for strengthening the heart, improving digestion, promoting circulation, reviving fire and increasing energy. Ruby strengthens  will, promotes independence, gives insight and enhances power. The Ruby was the gem of Kings.  This is the birthstone for July.

Emerald:  Emeralds have been found in Egyptian and Etruscan archaeological sites. The Emerald in India is thought to be an aid in memory and an assist in foretelling the future.  Emerald calms mental agitation, regulates the nervous system, helps stop nerve pain and improves speech and intelligence. Emerald promotes healing, energizes the breath, strengthens the lungs. It is a harmonizing stone, good for cancer and other degenerative diseases. The Emerald is the birthstone for May.

Pearl:  Comes in all sorts of lustres, shapes and oysters (  :)) The Pearl is another organic stone good for promoting body fluids and the blood, nourishing the body tissues and the nerves. Pearl strenghtens the female reproductive system and calms the emotions.  June is the birth month of the Pearl.

 

I have chosen these 4 elements of stones because I find them to be majestic and regal. Rich in colors and in light. They can coordinate with any type of clothing, be it denim, lace, taffeta, or leather.  Speaking of leather, I will have for sale some of the Victorian Indian beads on leather to be worn around the neck, or wrist. Multiple purposes for one piece. Again, gaining mileage out of your purchase. The quality and integrity of the Emeralds, Diamonds, Rubies and Pearls is  very high. Chosen with you, the discriminating buyer in mind.

Hope to see you enter Matsu soon ! Hurry in before they are gone. The supply is limited, and will be available with 2 weeks.

I hope you enjoyed the facts and stories here, and that you also enjoy this luscious weather. Too bad that we can recognize the sun already lowering it's body in the sky, and how the light has truly begun to alter.

That's it for now, folks. Hope  to see you soon.

Until then, I remain

Yours in Spirit, and in Joy,

Dava Muramatsu