Barbara Boz’ Fragments Chain Collection is a bold mixology of antique, vintage, forged and global influences. The result is a rustic-urban repurposed jewelry collection comprising upcycled elements, trade beads* and materials from the world-over. Reuse and reinvention are at the heart of this upcycled jewelry collection. The jewelry that we choose to wear speaks volumes about our values. It’s scale and proportion is just right for the casual-luxe lifestyle in which fine jewelry may appear disparate or out-of-place.
*History of Trade Beads. Starting around the 16th century, trade beads were created as a form of currency, wealth storage and social status. They are stunningly beautiful decorative glass beads that were made throughout Europe, although the Venetians dominated production due to their glass-making prominence. The success of this form of currency can largely be attributed to the work required to produce them locally and salability. These trade beads are considered to be one of the earliest forms of trade. It has also been surmised that bead trading was one of the reasons why humans developed language.