Inspiration behind the Aluta Ring

“A luta continua” means “The struggle continues”. My reason for using these words is because we all have struggles, from acceptance to survival to self-love to the struggle against homophobia, xenophobia, classism or racism. By emblazoning these words on precious metal across your fingers, it serves as a solid reminder to never give up, to approach your every day’s struggles with zeal and a spirit of impending victory. 

It is also a reminder of others’ struggles, and our own awareness hereof increases within us an empathy, understanding and tolerance.

These words were the rallying cry of the FRELIMO movement during Mozambique’s war for independence, and has since been used in our own country’s history but also elsewhere. The slogan was printed on T-shirts worn by LGBT rights activists at the funeral of David Kato Kisule, a Ugandan teacher and LGBT rights activist, considered a father of Uganda's gay rights movement in Uganda in 2011. All this shows the power and far-reaching meaning of “A luta continua”.

Evolution, baby!

I had a fantastic weekend, all because of 5 hours of blissful belonging. Waking up to a bad mood, I went for a class and created 2 flawless silver bands. This is  the start of new things for Jinn, as I will soon be able to add a range of quirky, unique rings as a collection. My excitement is beyond verbal expression. For now I am still having fun creating all the pieces my heart desires. My plan for one of them is to set one of my gran’s brooches as the focal point. It is so pretty; a crystal framed inlay of delft porcelain –  Can. Not. Wait. The other I plan to set a howlite cross in the centre, using a claw setting. This one may become a staple in my ring range.  Once I am done with me (does this sound selfish?), I will move on to creating dreamy pieces for all of you. This is all in accordance with the prophecy  that Jinn will have beautifully crafted, unique hooks on all the earrings, and interesting form and function to some parts. I have up till now been constrained by what the market had available, but now my world has opened up and I will finally have absolute creative freedom.

Ornate just became more awesome!! :-D