In 2019, in my early 20s, I went on my first solo hiking adventure. It may not sound like a big deal, but it was the most profound and shaping experience. It taught me so much, and I want to share what I learned and how it shaped the foundation of my jewellery brand today. 

I went to Bulgaria, specifically the Rila & Pirin mountain range. Hiking from one mountain peak to the next within a week. Apart from the physical attributes I adopted, it was more about the emotional and mental strength I developed. Before taking this trip, I was dependant on others to join me for events and life's adventures, but I slowly started to realise, I'm missing out on so much by waiting. So I decided to do something about it. 

I did it scared, I did it alone, but ever since I took that leap, I feel like I can conquer many things with confidence. This adventure taught me resilience, and the courage to face the unknown. 

 

I always think about what draws me to the blues, greens and browns in my jewellery work. I like to think it's the presence of this place and the mountains, the effect it had on me and my growth, and the feeling of courage all play a part. The earth colours give me a sense of calm and strength, bring me back to the moments I shared with the mountains in Bulgaria, and ultimately embed themselves into the soul of Shitika Studios. 

I share this part of my journey because I want this to be a reminder, and inspiration to embrace uncertainty in life. To embrace the uncommon parts, because through it is how we grow. If you have an adventure calling you- whether that is taking a solo trip, trying something new or moving to a new place- I encourage you to take it. You will learn a lot more by taking the leap, than being in a standstill. Do it for you and your growth. 

 

Some of the jewellery pieces with natural gemstones that have been shaped and born from this adventure are: 

CORE chains- each link intertwined to mimic the movement of the water in lakes I found along the way

Silver / Aquamarine

 

FOUND ring- this piece was created purely out of exploration, a willingness to be born in uncertainty 

Silver / Iolite

 

DRIFT ring- with a bold stance of forms, and the Lapis Lazuli stone nestled inside, this ring embodies the feeling of finding beauty in the unknown. 

Silver / Lapis Lazuli

 

Thank you for reading my journal

Kindly,

Shitika